Poland is set to assume a leadership role in the European Union following Hungary’s departure, with Prime Minister Donald Tusk at the helm. As Poland takes center stage in EU affairs, it will face significant challenges and controversies, from Ukraine’s bid for EU membership to the European Green Deal.
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Poland Takes Center Stage in EU Affairs
As the European Union grapples with various challenges, Poland has taken on a more prominent role in shaping EU policies. With its new presidency of the EU Council, Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk is determined to assert his country’s influence and push through key initiatives.
Ukraine War and EU Negotiations
One of the top priorities for Poland during its presidency is to ensure that Ukraine is not left out of peace negotiations over the war in Ukraine. Tusk wants the EU to have a seat at the negotiating table, with Ukrainians present at every round of talks. This stance has significant implications for the future of EU-Ukraine relations.
East Shield and European Defense
To prepare for all eventualities, Poland is constructing a line of defense called “East Shield” along its border with Belarus. The country would like Europe to help finance this project. Warsaw is also involved in the European air defense initiative known as European Sky Shield. However, the idea of running up new EU debt is extremely controversial in the bloc, with Germany and the Netherlands particularly opposed.
Ukraine’s Bid for EU Membership
Poland wants to kick-start accession negotiations with Ukraine, focusing on the rule of law, human rights, and the fight against corruption. While Kyiv is pushing for talks to begin in as many areas as possible, Warsaw does not want to rush into anything. This is due to Poland’s domestic political constraints, including an upcoming presidential election.
Domestic Political Constraints
Tusk’s center-left coalition government faces significant challenges at home. The country is currently in election campaign mode, and Tusk will not risk launching any European projects that are unpopular at home and could be used against him by the opposition. This includes a trade agreement with Ukraine to resolve the issue of imports into the EU for several years.
European Green Deal and Economic Concerns
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk is also highly skeptical about the European Green Deal developed by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The deal seeks to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions in the EU to zero by 2050, but Tusk believes that “naive ambitions to save the entire planet” are hampering Europe’s competitiveness in the world.
Situation in Germany and France
Tusk is trying to use the weakness of both Germany and France to bolster his country’s status. However, experts warn that Poland will face significant challenges in pushing through its agenda due to economic and political handicaps in these two European powerhouses.
This article was originally published in German.
