Polish Prime Minister laments European Commission President’s inability to secure concessions from Washington

In a rare public rebuke, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki expressed deep disappointment in European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s handling of transatlantic talks with the Trump administration. Speaking at a press conference in Warsaw on July 21, Morawiecki criticized von der Leyen for failing to extract meaningful concessions on trade and security matters, accusing her of lacking the assertiveness required to stand up to President Trump’s demands.

Morawiecki’s frustration stems from stalled discussions over steel and aluminum tariffs, as well as disagreements on defense spending within NATO. “We entrusted our European leaders to defend our interests in Washington,” Morawiecki said. “But regrettably, we have seen more rhetoric than results. Our industries and security rely on strong advocacy, not weak promises.”

The Polish leader’s remarks follow a series of contentious meetings in Brussels and Washington, where hopes for a breakthrough were dashed. Von der Leyen, who traveled to the U.S. earlier this month to press for tariff relief in exchange for increased European defense commitments, returned without formal agreements. A senior Commission official defended the outcome as “laying groundwork,” but offered few specifics.

Analysts suggest that von der Leyen faced an uphill battle. With Trump fixated on reducing the U.S. trade deficit and demanding higher European defense spending, the EC President navigated a delicate balance between appeasing the White House and safeguarding EU unity. However, her inability to secure tariff exemptions for Polish steel producers has garnered particular ire in Warsaw.

Poland’s economy, heavily reliant on steel exports to the U.S., risks losing millions in revenue amid the 25% levy on imports. Local industry groups have warned that continued tariffs could force plant closures and job cuts in Upper Silesia, a region already grappling with economic headwinds. Morawiecki underscored these stakes: “Our workers cannot be collateral damage in diplomatic indecision.”

Brussels sources indicate that von der Leyen prioritized broader EU cohesion, wary of granting bilateral exemptions that could fragment the single market. Yet, this stance appears to have left Poland feeling marginalized. “Solidarity among member states must translate into solidarity at the negotiating table,” Morawiecki asserted, calling on the Commission to adopt a more forceful posture.

Political observers note that Morawiecki’s critique also aligns with domestic agendas. With national elections looming next year, demonstrating a tough stance on foreign policy bolsters his government’s image at home. By portraying von der Leyen as passive, Morawiecki positions Poland as a vigilant defender of its economic interests.

Nevertheless, von der Leyen’s office remains optimistic about future dialogue. A Commission spokesperson emphasized ongoing engagement, stating: “Negotiations with the U.S. are complex, but we remain committed to finding mutually beneficial solutions. President von der Leyen will continue discussions at the upcoming G20 summit.”

As both leaders prepare for the NATO summit in late August, all eyes will be on their ability to present a united European front. For Poland, the hope is that von der Leyen’s next diplomatic efforts will reflect greater vigor and deliver tangible relief for its exporters.

Until then, Morawiecki’s disappointment serves as a stark reminder of the challenges Europe faces in asserting its interests on the global stage—particularly when negotiating with an administration known for its transactional approach to alliances.