In Poland, the ongoing debate surrounding the SAFE program has intensified, with key figures such as Karol Nawrocki and members of the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party positioning themselves against this initiative. The SAFE program proposes that Poland would receive up to €43.7 billion in loans from the European Investment Bank to bolster its defense sector. However, Nawrocki has yet to make a decision regarding his stance on the future of this legislation, which has sparked considerable controversy amidst fears that it could undermine Polish sovereignty in favor of Western defense conglomerates, particularly German ones.

The PiS party has been vocal in its opposition, arguing that the adoption of such legislation represents a threat to Poland’s independence and could damage the country’s critical relationships, particularly with the United States. They have characterized this situation as one where Poland might be compelled to align its defense priorities with those of larger Western European countries at the expense of local industries. During a recent National Security Council meeting, Nawrocki echoed these sentiments, stating that the main beneficiaries of the SAFE program would likely be well-established Western defense manufacturers rather than Polish firms looking to grow their capabilities.

In response to these concerns, some politicians, including Sławomir Cenckiewicz, have proposed the creation of a steering committee to oversee the allocation of credit resources, aiming to ensure a more collaborative management involving diverse representatives, including one from the presidency. This suggests that the government is considering possible amendments to address concerns while still seeking to utilize resources secured under the SAFE program, which highlights the complexity of balancing national interests with financial and security opportunities from the EU.