As Poland prepares to take on the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union on January 1, 2025, it brings distinct strengths to the table: a robust transatlantic alliance, a frontline perspective on Eastern Europe, and a clear commitment to enhancing the EU’s resilience. Leading a new Trio that includes Denmark and Cyprus, Poland’s presidency under Donald Tusk’s pro-European government prioritizes security across multiple dimensions.

Reinforcing Transatlantic Ties

Poland’s position as a guardian of NATO’s eastern flank has strengthened its role as a reliable EU partner. In 2024, Tusk’s government revitalized cooperation with Germany and France, while maintaining a strong relationship with the U.S., even amid ideological differences with President-elect Donald Trump. Trump’s recognition of Poland’s defense spending and procurement of U.S.-made weaponry underscores Warsaw’s strategic importance. Additionally, Poland aligns with U.S. concerns about China within the EU and has secured significant American loans for military advancements.

Advancing European Defense

With Europe seeking greater strategic autonomy, Poland’s presidency emphasizes defense innovation and integration:

• Domestic Production: Plans to scale up artillery shell production address Europe’s munitions shortfall, with Poland advocating for deeper integration of EU military industries.

• Funding: Proposals to finance defense efforts through European Investment Bank-European Defense Agency partnerships and profits from frozen Russian assets aim to strengthen Europe’s defense capabilities.

• Regional Collaboration: Poland’s inclusion in the Nordic-Baltic 8 (NB8) format highlights its leadership in the “Eastern Shield” initiative, fostering joint missions for Baltic Sea security and promoting offshore wind farm investments.

Strategic Alliances and Policy Development

Poland’s engagement with the NB8 enables it to address regional concerns and feed discussions into broader European formats such as the Weimar Triangle. Notable initiatives include:

• Eurobonds for Defense: Informal agreements to fund defense projects, despite German skepticism.

• Cohesion Policy Reforms: Advocacy for EU cohesion funds to support nations bordering Russia and Belarus aligns with Poland’s strategic goals.

• Regulatory Streamlining: Efforts to reduce EU over-regulation and ensure accurate weapons production forecasts reflect a pragmatic approach to boosting competitiveness.

Multifaceted Security Challenges

Poland’s presidency frames security as a multidimensional issue extending beyond military concerns:

• Energy Security: Ensuring stable electricity and heating supplies amid geopolitical shifts and China’s evolving role.

• Food Security: Addressing vulnerabilities in grain export logistics and climate change impacts, alongside managing domestic farmer protests.

• Technological Security: Investing in critical technologies like semiconductors and AI, including a PLN 1 billion initiative in Kraków.

• Information Security: Combating foreign interference and disinformation to safeguard democratic processes.

Poland’s approach also integrates economic, health, and civil security to build a comprehensive strategy for addressing Europe’s challenges.

A Decade of Strategic Evolution

Poland last held the EU presidency in 2011, prioritizing improved EU-Russia relations—a now unthinkable goal. However, even then, security was paramount, exemplified by an agreement with President Obama to build a ballistic missile defense base in Redzikowo, which was inaugurated in November 2024.

Under Tusk’s leadership, Poland has shifted from isolationism to a more engaged and collaborative role within Europe. Strengthened alliances with Germany and France, along with closer ties to the Baltics and Nordics, position Warsaw as a mediator and leader. Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski’s coordination with counterparts from the UK, Spain, and Italy on Ukraine policy underscores Poland’s commitment to multilateralism.

Poland’s Unique Strengths

Poland’s presidency brings valuable assets to the EU:

• Transatlantic Alliance: A steadfast partnership with the U.S. bolsters Poland’s geopolitical influence.

• Eastern Perspective: Firsthand experience with Eastern European challenges enhances Poland’s credibility in shaping EU policy.

• Commitment to Resilience: A focus on energy, food, technology, and information security reflects Poland’s dedication to strengthening the union.

As Poland leads the EU in 2025, its ability to navigate complex challenges and unite member states around shared goals will determine whether its presidency leaves a lasting legacy of resilience and collaboration for the European Union.