Trump congratulates Polish president-elect on victory
US President Donald Trump has congratulated right-wing Karol Nawrocki on his narrow victory in Poland’s presidential election, hailing the result as a triumph for their shared political values.
Nawrocki, backed by the socially-conservative and nationalist-leaning Law and Justice (PiS) party, won Sunday's presidential run-off with 50.89 percent of the vote, narrowly defeating centrist Civic Coalition (KO) candidate and Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, who secured 49.11 percent, according to the National Electoral Commission (PKW).
On Tuesday morning, Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social to applaud the result: "Congratulations to Poland, you have chosen a WINNER!" He also cited US broadcaster Newsmax, writing: "Trump ally wins in Poland, shocking all of Europe."
Nawrocki met with Trump in the Oval Office last month, a visit that drew attention to the alignment between the two politicians on issues such as national sovereignty, conservative values, and military strength.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also welcomed the result, saying on Monday: "The Polish people have spoken and support a stronger military and secure borders." He expressed hope for "close cooperation with President-elect Nawrocki and the Polish government to advance our shared priorities."
According to Reuters, Nawrocki's victory deals a blow to the centrist government's pro-European ambitions, raising the prospect of political gridlock, as the incoming president may use his veto powers to challenge Prime Minister Donald Tusk's liberal agenda.
Nawrocki is scheduled to take office on August 6. (PAP)
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