EU Releases 5 billion euros in Aid to Poland's Tusk Government

The Tusk government of Poland received a Christmas present from the European Union on Friday, as they announced the release of approximately 5 billion euros in aid.

This is a part of total around $65 billion that was previously withheld due to concerns over Poland's government amid concerns over its respect to the rule of law. The announcement was made by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during a news conference in Brussels, attended by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Tusk expressed his gratitude and emphasized the importance of these funds in improving Poland's energy independence by reducing its dependence on Russian fuel. 

The EU program to reduce dependence on Russian fuel and fossil fuels has unconditionally released funds. However, the remaining aid funding from the EU's COVID-recovery program is dependent on Poland reversing judicial reforms implemented by the right-wing Law and Justice Party. 

These reforms were criticized by EU officials for undermining the country's judiciary and failing to meet democratic standards. In a recent interview with Reuters, Tusk, the newly appointed leader, expressed confidence in step up the process of reversing the reforms with the implemented legislation. 

On Friday, von der Leyen expressed her admiration for the actions taken by Tusk and his government, expressing hope that the issues can be quickly resolved. 

She said that the concerns regarding the rule of law have hampered Poland's economic modernization and the implementation of green and digital transitions for too long. Tusk, who previously served as prime minister and president of the European Council, returned to Warsaw to lead his Civic Platform party and successfully challenge the ruling Law and Justice Party in the recent election.