In the Polish Sejm, MP Paweł Jabłoński confronted Prime Minister Donald Tusk over the Mercosur trade agreement, sparking a sharp exchange that was captured live on cameras.
Jabłoński to Tusk: Stop Waving Your Hand
During a morning session of the Sejm, Paweł Jabłoński questioned the prime minister about the Mercosur deal, urging Tusk to explain why it was “bad” and admonishing him to cease waving his hand, which he said signaled disrespect towards Polish farmers.
Tusk Reacts with a Hand Gesture
Prime Minister Donald Tusk responded by raising his hand, a gesture interpreted as dismissive, and later placed a hand on his face, performing a provocative gesture that was captured by cameras.
PiS MP: Tusk “Doesn’t Know What’s Happening in the Economy”
Jabłoński further alleged that Tusk lacks understanding of the national economy, questioning why Argentine beef was cheaper and blaming German automotive industry for national interests. He claimed the government had taken no concrete actions to counter Mercosur, citing a lack of response to his questions.
PiS MPs React Shocked
Party colleague Maciej Małecki described the episode as “shocking,” noting Tusk’s dismissive tone. Another MP, Olga Semeniuk‑Patkowska, called Tusk’s brief reply to Polish voters “short and clear.”
Mercosur Deal: What’s at Stake
The European Commission approved a free‑trade agreement with Mercosur countries—Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay—in early September. The pact is welcomed by European industry but raises concerns among EU farmers, mainly from France and Poland, over low‑limit quotas on beef and poultry. Protective clauses allow the EU to restrict imports if a sudden surge occurs, and the new EU budget envisions over €6 billion in compensation for farmers. The agreement will be voted on by the European Parliament in December, with Poland seeking to form a blocking minority. Full implementation requires the EU Parliament’s approval.
