Poland stands at a crossroads. On June 1, 2025, voters will choose their next president in a heated runoff between Rafał Trzaskowski, the liberal mayor of Warsaw backed by Civic Platform, and Karol Nawrocki, the conservative historian supported by Law and Justice (PiS). With the first round on May 18 yielding no majority, the nation braces for a pivotal decision that could shape its European ties, domestic policies, and global stance. Exit polls show Trzaskowski with 31.2% and Nawrocki with 29.7%, setting the stage for a nail-biting contest.
[](https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/05/18/exit-poll-rafal-trzaskowski-narrowly-wins-polish-presidential-election-first-round) |
| Campaign posters of two candidates and political opponents, Rafal Trzaskowski and Karol Nawrocki, running in the presidential election. (Photo by Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images) |
The Candidates and Their Visions
Rafał Trzaskowski, a pro-EU centrist, campaigns on strengthening Poland’s role in Europe, supporting abortion rights, and advancing judicial reforms. His victory would align with Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s agenda, easing legislative gridlock. “We’re going for victory,” Trzaskowski told supporters in Sandomierz, urging determination. His platform resonates with urban, liberal voters but faces challenges in rural strongholds.
[](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/5/18/centrist-trzaskowski-leads-first-round-in-polands-tight-presidential-poll)Karol Nawrocki, backed by the nationalist PiS, champions conservative values, criticizing the ruling coalition for progressive policies. In Gdansk, he called for a “great march for Poland” on May 25, framing the election as a fight against Tusk’s “autocracy.” Despite controversies, including a questionable apartment deal, Nawrocki’s base remains loyal, bolstered by endorsements like Solidarity’s. His campaign appeals to traditionalists but struggles with moderates.
[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2025_Polish_presidential_election)A Nation Tested: The 2025 Vistula Flood Response
In early 2025, Poland faced a geopolitical test when the Vistula River overflowed, flooding towns and displacing thousands. The crisis showcased Poland’s resilience and EU solidarity, as Brussels provided emergency funds and neighboring countries sent aid. Trzaskowski, as Warsaw’s mayor, coordinated relief efforts, earning praise, while Nawrocki volunteered with local charities, highlighting his community ties. This event, covered by AP News, underscored the stakes of leadership in turbulent times, making the runoff deeply personal for voters.
[](https://apnews.com/article/poland-presidential-election-nawrocki-trzaskowski-fc697c949bfc3296bfbaf0a1e1c67449)Savoring Poland: Pierogi z Mięsem Recipe
Amid political fervor, Poland’s heart lies in its cuisine. Pierogi z mięsem, meat-filled dumplings, are a national treasure, uniting families at gatherings. Here’s a recipe to bring Poland to your table:
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- Dough: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 egg, ½ cup warm water, 1 tbsp olive oil, pinch of salt
- Filling: 1 lb ground beef or pork, 1 onion (finely chopped), 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp butter
- Serving: Sour cream, fried onions
Instructions
- Make Dough: Mix flour, egg, water, oil, and salt. Knead until smooth. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare Filling: Sauté onion in butter until golden. Add ground meat, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned. Cool slightly.
- Assemble: Roll dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut 3-inch circles. Place 1 tsp filling in center, fold, and seal edges.
- Cook: Boil pierogi in salted water until they float (3–5 minutes). Optionally, pan-fry until golden.
- Serve: Top with sour cream and fried onions. Enjoy!
Why This Election Matters
The June 1 runoff will decide more than a president. With Poland bordering Ukraine and serving as a NATO hub, the winner will influence European security and trans-Atlantic unity. Trzaskowski’s pro-EU stance contrasts with Nawrocki’s skepticism of Brussels, echoing broader global debates. As Prime Minister Tusk noted on X, “The next two weeks will decide Poland’s future.”
[](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/5/18/centrist-trzaskowski-leads-first-round-in-polands-tight-presidential-poll)[](https://x.com/EuropeElects/status/1901670126325231746)Author: Planet-Today.com
Relax: