With the slogan “Secure Europe!”, Poland assumes the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union at a critical time in 2025. The 27-member EU group faces fragile economies, the continuing impact of Russia’s war in Ukraine and hurdles to enlargement.
In addition to the changing geopolitical situation, the return of “America First” Donald Trump to the White House this month raises the possibility of new U.S. tariffs on European exports and defenses against EU countries. There are growing concerns about increasing pressure to increase spending.
While the leaders of France and Germany are preoccupied with domestic political challenges, Poland, often seen as a disruptive force in EU politics, is now taking the lead.
At the inaugural celebrations at the Warsaw National Theater on January 3, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk appealed to EU partners to focus on strength and resilience. “If Europe is powerless, it will not survive,” Tusk said. “We must protect our freedoms and sovereignty and make Europe strong again.”
Focus on security and defense
Asked about Poland’s main objectives, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski told VOA: “Security, security, defense security, energy security, food security.”
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the combined threat from Russia and Belarus have placed Poland at the forefront of Europe’s and NATO’s defenses. Poland, which invests 4.7% of its GDP in defense, far above the NATO guideline of 2%, is calling on EU member states to increase defense spending and develop a collective security strategy.
“Two percent is not enough. It is the absolute minimum,” Poland’s Defense Minister Wladysław Kosinak-Kamisz told VOA, echoing President-elect Trump in calling for European countries to increase their defense spending.
The Polish defense minister added that countries that fall short risk losing influence in strategic decisions. “Europe has to do more to protect its security,” he said, “not to replace Americans with Europe, but to keep Americans in Europe.”
“Poland’s role will be extremely important during this period,” Mykola Kniazycki, co-chair of the Ukrainian parliamentary group on relations with Poland, told VOA. He emphasized that Poland is a strong ally of Ukraine and hopes that Poland’s leadership in the EU will “help build a stronger defense system within the EU.” spoke.
In addition to security, Poland aims to strengthen the EU’s economic resilience. This includes promoting competitiveness, strengthening trade independence and addressing energy issues exacerbated by the Ukraine war.
Magda Jakubowska, Vice-President of Les Publica Foundation, pointed out that Poland seizes the opportunity to turn defense investments into economic advantages and create a stronger and more innovative European defense industry.
EU enlargement supports Ukraine and Moldova
One of Poland’s key goals for the presidential term is to promote the EU enlargement process, particularly with respect to Ukraine and Moldova. Foreign Minister Sikorski stressed to VOA that Moldova could progress faster due to its small size, but Ukraine’s path is more complicated due to its large and diverse economy and war with Russia. .
He noted that Ukraine’s integration into the EU would require significant coordination with European regulations. “This is not really a negotiation,” Sikorski explained, adding: “Ukraine needs to align its domestic laws with existing EU regulations.”
Despite the challenges, Sikorski believes that the benefits of EU membership will be invaluable for Ukraine, both politically and economically.
Ukraine and Poland also have to deal with several bilateral economic and historical conflicts. Poland is due to hold a presidential election in the coming months, and Kniazicki hopes that the political controversy over Ukraine will not be used as a campaign tool by politicians.
“We hope to see Poland’s strategic interests come to the fore and continued support for Ukraine’s aspirations,” he said.
Jakubowska emphasizes Poland’s active role as a strong defender of the EU integration of Ukraine and Moldova. Ms. Jakubowska emphasized Poland’s strategic interest in fostering a democratic and free-market neighbor to the east, stressing that, in her view, this goal would significantly increase stability in the region.
“Europe’s security depends to a large extent on its neighbourhoods, on safe neighbourhoods,” she said. “So the accession of Ukraine is one thing, but the Western Balkans is also one thing. We have Georgia. And this is important in setting the European tone, the European agenda, the European priorities in those countries. It is important.”
Jakubowska said the presidency would provide Poland with a platform to ensure the security of Europe’s eastern borders, strive for political alignment with democratic values and influence the EU’s attitude towards these countries. .
leadership test
Poland’s appointment as chairperson also highlights the growing influence of Central and Eastern European countries within the EU. The country’s geographic location and historical experience with authoritarian threats provide a unique perspective on Europe’s challenges.
The Baltic states and Poland have forged a strong alliance, especially against Russian aggression. With Sweden and Finland joining NATO, the regional bloc plays an important role in shaping EU and NATO policy.
“This is an opportunity for Central Europe to show leadership,” Jakubowska said. “Poland’s presidency could set the tone for how the EU navigates its security, integration and economic challenges in the coming years.”
Jakubowska considers Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s leadership a valuable asset. She believes that Tusk, who served as president of the European Council for five years, understands the complexities of Brussels and that his leadership is crucial for the Polish presidency to be effective. .
“We are ready to take the lead in fighting for freedom and sovereignty in Europe,” Tusk said at his inauguration ceremony in Warsaw. With an ambitious schedule of 40 formal Council meetings, 20 informal Council meetings and 300 events over the next six months, we will aim to unify the EU and achieve ambitious goals for a stronger and more secure Europe. Poland’s ability to drive progress will be tested.
