The Interview Karol Nawrocki, Polish President: Europe has lost its way
Jan 19, 2026
Karol Nawrocki, the newly elected Polish president and former historian, discusses Europe's lost focus on security amidst ideological distractions like climate policy. He sees Putin as a looming threat and argues that Donald Trump is the best candidate to negotiate with Russia. Nawrocki criticizes the EU's priority on migration over defense and emphasizes the need for increased NATO solidarity. He also touches on Poland’s defense commitments and a rising conservative movement in Europe, urging a return to foundational values to combat transient ideologies.
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Europe Prioritised Ideology Over Security
- Karol Nawrocki argues Europe focused on ideological issues like the Green Deal instead of building resilience and security.
- He says Central and Eastern Europe, aware of Russia's threat, must lead on defence spending and cooperation.
Russia Seen As Enduring Threat
- Nawrocki describes Russia as a persistent historical threat to Poland and Europe across regimes.
- He asserts Donald Trump is the only leader who can currently solve the Russian aggression problem and merits support.
Reduce Risk By Investing In Defence
- Invest heavily in national defence and strengthen transatlantic cooperation with the United States.
- Nawrocki highlights Poland's near-5% GDP defence spending as a model for others.