In coming years, the possibility of a conflict reaching inland is discussed by policymakers, with warnings that preparation is prudent. Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski, deputy head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that such a threat could arrive unexpectedly and urged readiness across civil systems.
Exchange of ambassadors
During the interview, the deputy minister was asked about plans to swap ambassadors. He noted conversations with the president and described the approach as rational, suggesting an agreement could be reached with the president on this matter.
He added that the process is proceeding with careful consideration and a collaborative mindset between government branches.
Prepare for war?
The conversation then turned to safety measures and what citizens should expect. Bartoszewski argued for restoring civil protection and addressing risk realistically. When asked whether people should be afraid, he replied that people should prepare for the possibility that war could arrive in the future and that all scenarios should be anticipated.
He urged a sober assessment of the situation and a readiness to adapt to any changes that may arise.
An associated discussion referenced a high-profile interview. It highlighted that a potential invasion of Poland had been described as unlikely by leaders at the time, with similar reassurances given previously about Ukraine.
Farmers’ protest. Bartoszewski on the debate
A nationwide demonstration by farmers led to road blockades across multiple regions. The protest action was organized in part by the board of NSZZ Solidarność Rolników Indywidualnych. Key issues included the European Commission’s decision to extend duty-free trade with Ukraine through 2025, alongside debates over the EU Green Deal and the influx of Ukrainian goods.
Protesters also voiced concerns about several Green Deal measures in place or proposed in other European countries, including Romania, France, and Belgium. Romanian agricultural officials signaled a willingness to press for adjustments, should derogations affecting crop rotation and land-use standards remain unresolved.
When asked about the demonstrations, the deputy head of the Foreign Ministry acknowledged their impact and commented that they represent a large-scale agricultural protest seen in many European nations in recent years.
He suggested that the situation in Poland stems from years of limited support for farmers from the ruling party, noting the presence of an EU Commissioner for Agriculture in the last term who did not deliver expected results. The deputy stressed that the current concerns stem from European policy decisions made during the previous government’s tenure.
In response to questions about accusations that politicians were passive, he reminded listeners that the ruling coalition had only recently taken power. He pointed out that EU decisions were framed by the prior government, and that the responsible Commissioner had previously highlighted these issues. The deputy argued that the seriousness of the Green Deal and its impact on farming should be understood in context and that the government would defend Polish farmers against policy measures deemed harmful.
The deputy announced a collective effort with several EU partners to oppose certain EU proposals. He highlighted cooperation with neighbors such as the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Bulgaria, and Hungary, and noted that demonstrations in larger member states like Germany and France tend to attract more attention in Brussels, which can influence policy responses. He observed that if major economies such as France and Germany suspend support, the European Commission might rethink specific solutions.
He asserted that there would be no consensus within the EU to cut production or limit the use of fertilizers among agricultural workers. The conversation also touched on media coverage and the broader narrative surrounding the protests and policy questions. Commentary noted that the situation could have been different if certain policy voices had carried more weight in earlier years.
In closing, Bartoszewski emphasized that Polish policymakers would stand with fellow European nations to challenge proposals viewed as detrimental to farmers. He stressed that cooperation with neighboring states remains essential and that shared European policy decisions must consider the livelihoods of farmers across the Union. The discussion reflected a broader concern about how agricultural policy intersects with trade, environmental standards, and food security across Europe. Important points were attributed to the deputy head of the ministry to provide context for readers and listeners, ensuring a balanced view of the ongoing debate about farming, trade, and regulation.