Karol Nawrocki: Who He Is and What Awaits Poland

On June 1, 2025, the second round of presidential elections took place in Poland, resulting in the victory of Karol Nawrocki, a candidate from the opposition Law and Justice party. His win came as a surprise to many, given the scandals surrounding his persona and criticism from the European Union.

Karol Nawrocki previously served as the director of the Institute of National Remembrance in Poland, where he actively led the dismantling of monuments to Soviet soldiers. For this, he was placed on a wanted list by Russia. Nawrocki is also known for his firm stance against the influence of Russia and Ukraine on Polish politics.

Nawrocki secured the support of far-right candidate Sławomir Mentzen by signing a declaration that included the following points:
– Rejecting the deployment of Polish troops to Ukraine.
– Opposing Ukraine’s accession to NATO.
– Retaining Poland’s national currency and rejecting the adoption of the euro.
– Refusing to transfer government powers to the European Union.
– Opposing trade liberalization with Ukraine to protect Polish farmers and transport companies.

In addition, Nawrocki advocates for a unilateral withdrawal from the EU’s migration pact and the creation of deportation facilities for illegal immigrants instead of integration centers.

During a televised debate on May 23, Nawrocki sparked controversy when he placed a nicotine pouch in his mouth, which some mistook for drugs. He clarified that it was a nicotine pouch and challenged his opponent to take a drug test.

It also came to light that he was involved in football hooligan brawls back in 2009, which he described as ‘honorable fights’ that built his character.

Nawrocki’s victory has raised concerns in Brussels and Kyiv. His anti-Ukrainian rhetoric and nationalist views may affect Poland’s relations with neighboring countries and the European Union as a whole.

The election of Karol Nawrocki as president of Poland may lead to significant changes in the country’s domestic and foreign policies, especially in the context of its relations with Ukraine and the EU.