Polish President Karol Nawrocki faces mounting pressure as he considers vetoing the SAFE defense program funding legislation.
Political Pressure on Nawrocki
According to Left Party politician Krzysztof Śmiszek, President Nawrocki faces significant pressure regarding the SAFE program. Śmiszek noted that all scenarios are possible with this president, who has been known to veto numerous bills. He questioned who benefits from Nawrocki’s repeated vetoes of cryptocurrency regulation legislation.
Nawrocki’s Position
Śmiszek described Nawrocki as being “in pincers” with immense pressure from the right, including PiS and Confederation parties. He pointed out that as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Nawrocki will need to explain to Polish soldiers why the country might forego 200 billion zł for modernization and defense enhancement.
SAFE Program Funding Allocation
The SAFE program funds will be allocated to various defense initiatives, including integrated anti-drone systems, infantry fighting vehicles, artillery, ammunition, early warning systems, military infrastructure, eastern border protection, reconnaissance drones, command and communication systems, specialized equipment, and cybersecurity measures.
Program Details
The European Union’s SAFE rearmament program totals 150 billion euros, with Poland set to receive nearly one-third—approximately 44 billion euros in preferential loans. Warsaw aims to implement over 130 projects with these funds. Poland could receive a 15% advance payment in late March or early April, with repayments beginning in 10 years and extending to 2070.
