Tusk Vows Reforms Despite Election Loss

Tusk Vows Reforms Despite Election Loss

Poland

Following the June 1 presidential runoff, in which conservative Karol Nawrocki defeated centrist candidate Rafal Trzaskowski, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk reaffirmed his commitment to reform. The loss dealt a setback to Tusk’s pro-European agenda, especially plans to overhaul the judiciary, CE Report quotes PAP

“In August, a president skeptical of our reforms will be replaced by one equally skeptical,” Tusk noted, referring to Nawrocki’s upcoming inauguration.

Despite the defeat, Tusk sought a vote of confidence, stressing his coalition's democratic mandate. “We have a responsibility to govern until 2027, and that responsibility remains unchanged by the election result,” he said.

Tusk also announced a government reshuffle in July, aimed at structural reform rather than just personnel changes. “There will be new faces,” he promised.

Reiterating his intention to reverse PiS-era judicial reforms, Tusk acknowledged that success depends on presidential cooperation. The EU has repeatedly criticized the reforms for undermining judicial independence.

On foreign policy, Tusk emphasized continued support for Ukraine, saying, “Russia is our enemy—Ukraine is fighting for our security too.” However, he pledged to defend Polish farmers’ interests, criticizing PiS for opening the market to Ukrainian grain.

Tusk also vowed legal accountability for PiS-era misconduct. “There will be no mercy for those who deserve punishment—but within the law,” he said.

The current coalition ousted the PiS in October 2023 after eight years in power, accusing it of politicizing state institutions and misusing public funds.

Tags

Related articles

Kaczynski Urges Anti-Migrant Protest
At a Tuesday press conference, Law and Justice (PiS) leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski announced plans for a nationwide protest against illegal migration and the EU migration pact, accusing Germany and Brussels of trying to impose migrant burdens on Poland.
Poland Faces PLN 8 Billion Loss from US Tariffs
Poland is expected to lose around PLN 8 billion (EUR 1.9 billion) due to the 15-percent tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump on EU imports starting in August, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk reported.
Poland Faces Flood Threat in Southern Regions
Polish Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński warned on Monday that the situation is “really difficult” in several areas, particularly Bielski County and along the Wapienica, Iłownica, and Biała rivers.
US Backs Poland with Military Loan Guarantee
The United States has issued a loan guarantee for Poland under the Foreign Military Financing (FMF) programme, securing payments for previously signed contracts involving American military equipment.
Duda Appoints New Ministers in Government Reshuffle
Polish President Andrzej Duda formally appointed several new ministers on Thursday during a ceremony at the Presidential Palace, completing a significant reshuffle in Donald Tusk’s government.
Polish Astronaut Uznanski-Wisniewski Returns Home
Polish astronaut Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski received a warm welcome at Warsaw Chopin Airport on Thursday, greeted by around 100 supporters waving flags and banners.
Migrant Shot with Rubber Bullet at Poland-Belarus Border
Poland’s Armed Forces reported that soldiers used rubber bullets while trying to stop a group of migrants illegally crossing from Belarus on Tuesday.
New Polish President Signals Tense Start
Poland’s President-elect Karol Nawrocki has named Law and Justice (PiS) MP Zbigniew Bogucki as head of the President’s Office.
Poland to Reshuffle Cabinet Wednesday
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk will unveil a new lineup of the Council of Ministers on Wednesday at 10 a.m., according to Michał Szłapka.
Poland Probes Air Traffic Failure
A failure in the IT system of the Polish Air Navigation Services Agency (PAZP) disrupted air traffic operations, the Warsaw airport said in a statement.
EU Approves New Russia Sanctions
The European Union on Friday approved its 18th package of sanctions against Russia, intensifying pressure over its war in Ukraine.