WARSAW, Poland - Karol Nawrocki has been elected as Poland's new president, securing a narrow victory with 50.89% of the votes in the June 1 election [1][2]. This result marks a significant shift in Poland's political landscape and potentially its relationship with the European Union (EU).

Nawrocki, backed by the nationalist-conservative Law and Justice Party (PiS), narrowly defeated Warsaw's liberal mayor Rafal Trzaskowski [1]. The election outcome represents a resurgence for PiS, which had lost power in the October 2023 parliamentary elections [1][2].

The new president's victory poses challenges for Prime Minister Donald Tusk's center-right coalition government, which came to power in 2023 with the aim of improving Poland's relations with the EU [2][4]. Under previous PiS rule, Poland-EU relations had deteriorated due to concerns over human rights and the rule of law, leading to the suspension of EU funds [2].

While the Polish presidency is largely ceremonial, it holds significant veto power over legislation, including judicial reforms, budget laws, and military appointments [4]. This authority could potentially obstruct Tusk's liberal agenda and complicate efforts to restore Poland's standing within the EU [4].

Nawrocki's election has also drawn international attention, particularly from the United States. The president-elect has been described as 'Trump-backed,' with reports of a meeting between Nawrocki and former U.S. President Donald Trump in the Oval Office [1][2].

The close election results (50.89% for Nawrocki) reflect a deeply divided Polish electorate [1][2]. This division mirrors broader tensions within the country regarding its future direction and relationship with the EU.

As Poland navigates this new political reality, the international community, particularly the EU, will be closely watching how Nawrocki's presidency impacts Poland's domestic policies and its role within the European bloc.