Jaroslaw Kaczynski threatens Polish withdrawal from the European Union

Jaroslaw Kaczynski, leader of the Law and Justice party (PiS) and former Prime Minister of Poland (2006-2007), has sparked intense political controversy by threatening that Poland could withdraw from the European Union. During a forum on October 28, 2026, Kaczynski demanded the abolition of the European Commission, labeling it a dangerous institution, and called for the drafting of a new treaty among member states. He stated that if these demands are not met, Poland should utilize the existing treaty's provisions to exit the bloc, describing the process as a necessary, albeit risky, negotiation tactic.

The Polish government, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, has strongly condemned these statements, with the government expressing determination to prevent any move toward a 'Polexit.' This rhetoric highlights the ongoing tensions between the current administration and the PiS, which governed from 2015 to 2023 and had previously engaged in open conflicts with Brussels regarding judicial and institutional reforms. As the debate continues, the proposal remains a controversial political stance within the country, with the government signaling its absolute opposition to any such path.