Von der Leyen congratulates Poland's new President Nawrocki

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has extended her congratulations to Karol Nawrocki following his narrow victory in Poland's presidential election, expressing optimism for continued cooperation between Warsaw and Brussels.

"I’m confident that the EU will continue its very good cooperation with Poland," von der Leyen said on Monday via X. "We are all stronger together in our community of peace, democracy, and values. So let us work to ensure the security and prosperity of our common home." 

Nawrocki, a conservative historian backed by the Law and Justice party, secured 50.89% of the vote in Sunday's runoff election, narrowly defeating liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, who garnered 49.11%. 

The election outcome is poised to complicate the governance of Prime Minister Donald Tusk's centrist, pro-European administration. As president, Nawrocki holds the power to veto legislation, which could hinder the government's reform agenda on issues such as judicial independence and social policies. 

Nawrocki, 42, previously led the Institute of National Remembrance and is known for his nationalist views and emphasis on traditional values. His campaign received support from US President Donald Trump and other right-wing figures. 

The election saw a record voter turnout of 71.31%.