Saturday, January 4, 2025

Poland takes helm of EU with pledge to counter Russian influence

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Poland has pledged to make security a top priority during its six-month presidency of the European Union – focusing on ramping up defence, supporting Ukraine and strengthening sanctions against Russia.

Warsaw, which took over the presidency from Hungary on 1 January, says it wants to “strengthen its position as one of the most important” EU states by addressing key issues like the economy, energy and food security.

Poland’s tenure as president of the European Council is expected to bring a more conciliatory approach than its predecessor to a role that – although lacking in real power – is seen as a key driver of actions taken by the bloc.

The six-month role shifts leadership from Hungary – one of Moscow‘s closest EU allies – to one of its strongest critics.

Long bound together by strong cultural and diplomatic ties, Poland and Hungary have seen their European fortunes diverge dramatically in recent years.

Hungary’s controversial term

Under Hungary’s ultra-nationalist prime minister, Viktor Orban, Budapest regularly found itself at loggerheads with Brussels.

Although the EU likens the role of the presidency to “hosting a dinner” among the bloc’s members, the job is not without punch.

A staunch ally of Ukraine since Russia’s 2022 invasion, Poland has pledged to focus on defence and security during its term.

Read more on RFI English

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