Prime Minister Donald Tusk addressed three myths about the SAFE security program in Kobyłka, emphasizing its importance for Poland’s sovereignty.
Tusk Debunks Sovereignty Myth Regarding SAFE
Prime Minister Donald Tusk addressed the first myth that the SAFE program threatens Polish sovereignty or is imposed from outside. He stated the program was designed entirely in Poland, saying “This was our initiative, our idea, our pressure.” Tusk emphasized that the European Commission respected their proposals down to the comma, noting “It was we who told Brussels what this project should look like, not they us.”
Independent Judiciary as Safeguard Against Corruption
The second myth concerned the EU conditionality mechanism under which funds can be suspended for countries where violations of the rule of law make it difficult to manage EU funds. Tusk explained that conditions for using funds are meant to protect against corruption or careless spending. He stated, “Only in a country where we have an independent judiciary, an efficient prosecutor’s office, clear legal provisions, anti-corruption safeguards, is there certainty that these very large sums of money will not be wasted.”
Will Germany Benefit from SAFE?
Addressing the third myth that Germany rather than Poland would benefit from SAFE, Tusk noted the program involves nearly 200 billion zlotys. He clarified that over 80 percent of this amount will go to the Polish defense industry, describing SAFE as “a great program not only for defense” but also “a huge injection of capabilities, money, technology for the Polish defense industry and for all partners.”
Security Stakes at Highest Level
At the “SAFE – secure Poland” event in Kobyłka, Tusk emphasized that “There is no more important issue today” and that “Every day and every hour will affect Poland’s security.” The Prime Minister stressed that Poland’s own defense capabilities are crucial, as the stakes involve ensuring security for Poland and all of Europe.