Breakthrough in Brussels: A New Approach to ETS and Support for Poland

At the European Council meeting in Brussels, EU leaders agreed on changes to the CO₂ emissions trading system. Poland is to receive financial support as one of the member states bearing the heaviest energy cost burden.

"For many days, together with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, we had been preparing a course of action aimed at persuading the most pro-climate countries and the European Commission to adopt the most flexible approach possible on ETS" - Donald Tusk explained.

Poland will be among the countries covered by ETS support, funded through proceeds released from a portion of emission allowances directed to countries most burdened by high energy prices.

"The philosophy has changed entirely, a very strong group of countries emerged that persuaded nations such as Germany not to question the need for a specific approach to ETS. A breakthrough has been achieved. This is a political revolution within the European Union" - the Prime Minister assessed.

A flexible approach to ETS is particularly important for Poland, as the system significantly affects energy prices in the country.

"We also succeeded in obtaining a declaration from the European Commission to extend by many years the period during which free allowances for energy-intensive industries may be granted. This will be confirmed by June of this year at the latest" - the Prime Minister informed.

The decisions taken by EU leaders in Brussels will have significant implications for the future of climate policy and the competitiveness of European industry.

Poland Strengthens the Eastern Flank and Calls for Focus on Ukraine

At the EU summit, Poland succeeded in keeping the eastern flank as one of the key defence priorities of the EU.

"I also welcomed the agreement that the future financial framework will include additional funds for EU regions bordering Russia and Belarus. This will provide tangible financial relief for our eastern voivodeships" - the Prime Minister assessed.

EU leaders also discussed migration in the context of the conflict in the Middle East.

"We succeeded in persuading the European Commission and other partners to state unequivocally that the EU will not repeat the mistakes of the 2015 migration crisis. The Union must defend its territory and borders against illegal migration in a firm and unambiguous manner" - the Prime Minister stressed.

Donald Tusk reiterated that Poland should not become involved in the war in Iran.

"We, as Poles, carry a serious burden and responsibility on our shoulders, that is the protection of Poland's eastern border, and of Europe's and NATO's" - the Prime Minister explained.

It is in Poland's interest to keep the world's attention focused on the situation in Ukraine, given its direct impact on the security of our country.