Dialogue with the European Commission on the FPO and KPO funds
A high-intensity exchange is taking place between Polish officials and the European Commission regarding the Fund for Poland’s Reconstruction and Development (FPO) and the National Reconstruction Plan (KPO). The European Affairs Minister, Szymon Szynkowski vel Sek, described the ongoing discussions on Wednesday, noting that a package of guiding proposals had been presented and is currently under analysis by Brussels. The goal is to finalize substantive talks and secure formal guarantees from the Commission before moving forward.
During a Polsat News interview, the minister was asked about the latest developments in the talks with the European Commission about KPO funds. He acknowledged that the dialogue is intense, though the pace from the Commission has been somewhat slower than he would expect. He suggested this might be the result of the working tempo of a large bureaucratic machine that can seem to drag at times.
Szynkowski vel Sek also mentioned a Wednesday phone conversation with EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders. He described the dialogue as bearing concrete fruit because operational agreements have been accepted, referring to the European Commission’s late November decision approving those arrangements for Poland’s FPA.
Judiciary questions
Asked about potential judicial reforms, the minister said these issues are under intensive discussion. He emphasized the need to address the Commission’s concerns and to remove any doubts about Polish measures. For instance, there was mention of an independence test for judges and whether its use could trigger disciplinary actions. While such a test was included in a presidential draft, the Commission remains cautious that it might still lead to disciplinary outcomes in some scenarios.
The conversation has included discussions about filling a so‑called confidence gap where the Commission might misinterpret Polish steps. Several related concerns were identified, and the minister clarified that he is not referring to a specific clause in the Supreme Court reform package. Rather, the focus is on broad directional changes. The core constitutional authority still lies with the Polish Parliament and the President, with decisions anticipated there. The aim is to pursue solutions that could dispel the Commission’s doubts.
When asked whether the package contains provisions that could explain Brussels’ reservations, the minister indicated that such a package exists and has been submitted for analysis. He noted that Commissioner Reynders had already provided initial comments in their latest conversation, and the Polish side stands ready to proceed smoothly. Specific facets, including possible extensions of impartiality tests or revert to earlier conceptions of the Supreme Court changes, were described as areas of discussion rather than topics with concrete details disclosed to the public.
Looking ahead, a new round of talks and consultations is planned, including work by Poland’s negotiating team operating from the Prime Minister’s Chancellery, which has been handling the matter efficiently. The minister also said that while there is a strong willingness to push through a rapid procedure, it is difficult to forecast the exact likelihood of a draft amendment to the Supreme Court bill reaching the Sejm by December because much depends on both sides’ pace.
On the KPO front, there was a clear message: guarantees from Brussels are awaited so that the substantive phase can be completed and a timely application for payment can be submitted and processed. The aim is to file the application at a moment when it is unlikely to be rejected, ensuring a smooth flow of funds once formal approvals are secured.
Historically, changes to the Supreme Court were shaped by constitutional amendments, including a notable July 15 reform that replaced the Disciplinary Chamber with the Chamber of Professional Responsibility and introduced measures to test impartiality and independence. The Commission has repeatedly signaled expectations about the closure of the Disciplinary Chamber. In parallel, the Court of Justice of the European Union had ordered Poland to suspend the Disciplinary Chamber and, later, to pay a daily fine for non‑compliance with those requirements.
Macron’s stance
The Polish minister highlighted President Emmanuel Macron’s stance on Russia, describing it as hard to understand and difficult to accept. He pointed to Russia’s actions in Ukraine and to the need for a robust response that includes security assurances for Ukraine, while acknowledging the debate within France about how to calibrate such guarantees. The minister argued that Russia cannot credibly offer security guarantees while it violates international law and commits aggression, and he urged a resolute approach that also considers military support to Ukraine.
Asked whether Paris’ position is compatible with Poland’s view, the minister stated that it is a real challenge to reconcile these differences. He underscored the importance of resisting aggression and preserving European stability, with a clear-eyed stance toward Russia until it meets internationally recognized borders and withdraws its forces.
Regarding the forthcoming sanctions framework, the Polish side is currently analyzing the Commission’s outline. Poland’s perspective has consistently leaned toward ambitious measures, and the minister signaled openness to strengthening sanctions in certain areas, while acknowledging that Poland typically aims for a strong, proactive European stance in such matters.
There has been regular communication about the ninth package of sanctions against Russia, with Polish officials noting that the European Union is nearing finalization. The discussions continue, with Poland preparing to monitor and, where appropriate, advocate for tougher measures as the situation develops.
In a broader view, Poland’s permanent representative to the EU has mentioned ongoing progress toward finalizing the ninth package, underscoring a collaborative approach in the EU’s response to Russia’s aggression. These developments reflect the ongoing policy dialogue and coordination across Brussels and Warsaw as both sides work to align on rules, guarantees, and the timing of financial disbursements in support of Polish reform and resilience efforts.
Source notes: coverage and summaries were compiled from official briefings and broadcast statements. The material reflects public statements and official responses on the topic of EU funds, judicial reforms, and sanctions policy in response to the situation in Ukraine. The aim is to present a clear, condensed narrative of the discussions and positions involved.