In a recent interview, Polish Minister Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka responded to opposition accusations regarding the SAFE program, which is designed to bolster national defense funding. She emphasized that using debt instruments for defense is not novel and clarified that Poland is borrowing from a credible source, specifically the European Commission, as part of its EU membership. The loan has a favorable interest rate of approximately 3%, linked to EU bond rates, with an extended repayment period of 45 years, including a 10-year grace period during which only interest will be paid.

Sobkowiak-Czarnecka defended the SAFE program against concerns raised by opposition leader Jarosław Kaczyński, who argued that the initiative could lead to significant increases in national debt and questioned the program's conditionality, which might allow Brussels to influence spending decisions. In counter-arguing, Sobkowiak-Czarnecka insisted that accessing funds through the European Union presents more favorable terms than available alternatives, making it a pragmatic choice for Poland's defense strategy.

The implications of the SAFE program are significant as they touch on Poland's fiscal strategy, national defense funding, and its relationship with the EU. The debate around this program reflects broader tensions in Polish politics regarding economic management and the balance of power between national sovereignty and EU oversight. By addressing these issues, Sobkowiak-Czarnecka aims to reassure the public about the benefits of the SAFE program while navigating the contentious political landscape in Poland regarding fiscal responsibility and military preparedness.