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Polish PM vows stronger army, industrial revival and crackdown on crime in 2026

02.01.2026 10:00
Prime Minister Donald Tusk pledged in a New Year’s address that 2026 will be a year of acceleration for Poland, marked by military buildup, infrastructure investment, and a tougher stance on crime.
Tusk said Poland must remain an oasis of security, noting efforts to tighten border protection and rebuild domestic industries, especially in defense.
Tusk said Poland must remain “an oasis of security,” noting efforts to tighten border protection and rebuild domestic industries, especially in defense. Photo: KPRM

Tusk said the country would push forward with building “the strongest army in Europe,” revitalizing defense industry production, and enforcing the principle of “local content” in public procurement. He also vowed a harsh response to lawbreakers, promising that “everyone who breaks the law will bitterly regret it.”

Reflecting on 2025, Tusk described it as a turning point. “The economy gained momentum, inflation ended, and we launched major investments,” he said, adding that Poland had also repaired its relations with the European Union and reclaimed “our Polish billions.”

The prime minister tied the country’s direction to the 1,000th anniversary of the coronation of Poland’s first king, Bolesław Chrobry, calling history “a treasure and foundation” for the nation. He emphasized that strength, the rule of law, and freedom—not corruption or division—were key to Poland’s future.

Tusk said Poland must remain “an oasis of security,” noting efforts to tighten border protection and rebuild domestic industries, especially in defense. He concluded with wishes for another “good year” for Poland — its 1,001st — and extended greetings to Europe, urging Europeans to be “energetic, brave, and safe like Poland.”

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Source: PAP