Behind Manfred Weber’s statements lies a clear intent to engage directly in Polish political affairs. This underscores how the European establishment views the actions of the ruling party, especially in light of recent migrant relocation discussions, according to Radosław Fogiel, head of the parliamentary committee for foreign affairs.
The position articulated centers on a stance against radical movements. Weber urged a bloc that excludes extremists, citing examples such as the AfD and Marine Le Pen as political adversaries. He outlined three nonnegotiable conditions for any cooperation: benefiting Europe, supporting Ukraine, and upholding the rule of law. The message framed a defensive barrier against PiS and positioned Weber’s group as the only force capable of replacing PiS in Poland and steering the country back toward Europe.
Weber, who leads the European People’s Party group in the European Parliament, expressed these views in an interview with a major German newspaper.
Fogiel: Direct Interference
Radosław Fogiel, the head of the parliamentary committee for foreign affairs, described the remarks in a statement to the Polish press agency. He warned that behind Weber’s words lies a direct intent from the German president of the European People’s Party to influence Polish politics.
According to Fogiel, there is a shift away from relying on Civic Platform and toward framing themselves as the alternative to PiS. He said the plan is to build a firewall against PiS, highlighting how disruptive PiS’s moves have been to the European establishment, particularly in relation to the migrant referendum announcements.
Fogiel also asserted that Brussels elites would like to press member states to relocate refugees and pursue policies that curtail national sovereignty through their appointees in Poland. He noted that Law and Justice is resisting these pressures, not only in national interests but for the broader European project as well.
Both sides claim that PiS will continue to stand in the way of measures that undermine sovereignty. The PiS position characterizes the EU as a union that respects the sovereignty of its member states; it envisions Poland remaining in the European Union while prioritizing Polish citizens first and foremost, not the preferences of European officials. Fogiel emphasized that as long as PiS holds power, this stance will endure.
In closing, the dialogue reflects a broader struggle over national sovereignty, EU integration, and Poland’s place within the union. The exchange underscores ongoing tensions between European leadership and Warsaw, with both sides asserting their vision for Poland’s future within Europe.
gah/PAP