Tusk: EU loans won't impact Poland-US military cooperation

Tusk: EU loans won't impact Poland-US military cooperation

Tusk: EU Loans Won’t Undermine Poland-US Military Cooperation

Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk has reaffirmed that the country’s participation in the EU’s €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense loan program will not compromise its strategic partnership with the United States. The program, approved by EU finance ministers on February 17, 2026, allocates €44 billion in low-interest loans to Poland for modernizing its military and strengthening domestic defense industries.

Tusk emphasized that the EU-backed loans offer “very favourable terms,” with interest rates significantly lower than those of previous Polish military financing agreements, such as loans from South Korea for arms purchases. He also defended the program against opposition claims that it could weaken Poland’s ties with the U.S., stating, “Even if they veto it, we will find ways to save at least some of these funds, but it will take time, and it will also cost some unnecessary money and stress” according to Tusk.

The political controversy stems from concerns raised by the right-wing opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party and President Karol Nawrocki, who argue that SAFE’s emphasis on EU-sourced procurement could limit Poland’s access to advanced U.S. or South Korean military technology. Slawomir Cenckiewicz, President Nawrocki’s national security advisor, criticized the program as a “way of gradually turning our backs on the United States” and warned it could hinder Poland’s ability to acquire critical systems like those from U.S. firms according to Bloomberg.

Despite these concerns, Tusk’s government maintains that SAFE aligns with Poland’s national security interests. Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski acknowledged the U.S. as Poland’s “most important partner” but stressed the need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its defense, stating, “We cannot be suckers” while emphasizing the importance of balancing transatlantic and European ties as Reuters reported.

The legislation to channel SAFE funds through Poland’s National Development Bank has passed the Sejm but faces potential opposition in the Senate and a possible presidential veto. If blocked, the government has indicated it could pursue alternative agreements with the EU to secure the funds.

The program’s success hinges on navigating domestic political tensions while ensuring its implementation supports both Poland’s defense priorities and its broader strategic alliances.