Nationalist Karol Nawrocki narrowly won Poland’s presidency with 50.89% of the vote, defeating liberal rival Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski in a tight run-off.
Backed by U.S. President Donald Trump and representing the opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party, Nawrocki’s win deals a blow to Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s pro-EU government.
Congratulations to @NawrockiKn.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) June 2, 2025
I’m confident that the EU will continue its very good cooperation with Poland.
We are all stronger together in our community of peace, democracy, and values.
So let us work to ensure the security and prosperity of our common home.
While Poland’s presidency is largely ceremonial, the office holds veto power over legislation — a tool Nawrocki is expected to wield against the pro-Brussels coalition. His victory comes amid global scrutiny over Poland’s role in EU cohesion and support for Ukraine.
Nawrocki has criticized Kyiv’s leadership and signaled a tougher line on NATO expansion, potentially weakening Poland’s previously unwavering support for Ukraine.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized continued cooperation, saying, “We are all stronger together.”
Nawrocki will succeed fellow conservative Andrzej Duda for a five-year term.
