Pro-European Poland Assumes EU Presidency from Hungary

BRUSSELS – Poland has taken over the rotating presidency of the European Union for the next six months, presenting an opportunity for the country to shape the European agenda. This transition was highly anticipated by diplomats in Brussels, especially after a tumultuous period under Hungarian leadership characterized by provocations and disputes.

Shortly after Hungary assumed the presidency, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán visited Russia and later traveled to China on what he called a peace mission. These actions were met with strong backlash from other European leaders, who emphasized that Orbán was not representing the EU. In response, the European Commission chose to boycott meetings in Hungary, and several European ministers declined to visit Budapest.

While Poland has traditionally been a close ally of Hungary within the EU, the political landscape has shifted. For over a year, Poland has been governed by a pro-European administration led by Donald Tusk, who has made it clear that security will be the primary focus during their presidency. Poland is a key supporter of Ukraine, opposes Russian influence, and has significantly increased its defense spending.

January 1, 2025