Sikorski: Europe must urgently take more responsibility for its own security.

Sikorski: Europe must urgently take more responsibility. Radosław Sikorski, a seasoned Polish politician and diplomat, has once again captured public attention as he actively participates in his party's primaries to select a candidate for the presidential election next year. For Sikorski, this campaign represents more than just another chapter in his career—it is a pursuit of his lifelong ambition to become the President of Poland. A victory would mark the crowning achievement of a career spanning decades, during which he held key roles such as Minister of Defence, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Speaker of the Sejm. Sikorski’s campaign is characterized by his emphasis on Poland's role in the European Union, a strong commitment to democratic values, and a firm stance on foreign policy, particularly regarding security in the face of Russian aggression. His eloquence, intellectual demeanor, and wealth of international experience make him a formidable contender. However, his candidacy is not without challenges. Critics have pointed to his wife, Anne Applebaum, as a potential image burden. A renowned journalist and historian, Applebaum is respected globally for her work on authoritarianism and history, but her outspoken views and foreign origins have occasionally drawn skepticism in Polish political discourse. Detractors argue that her presence might polarize certain voter groups, while supporters see her as an asset, highlighting their partnership as a symbol of Poland’s integration with Western democratic ideals. Sikorski recently addressed these issues and others in a candid interview published on YouTube, which has been widely discussed in political circles. In the interview, he presented himself as a pragmatic statesman capable of uniting a divided Poland. He tackled controversial topics with his characteristic sharpness, demonstrating his readiness to confront challenges head-on. As the primaries unfold, Sikorski’s ability to secure his party’s nomination—and ultimately the presidency—will depend on how effectively he can navigate these narratives, unite his base, and appeal to the broader electorate. For now, his campaign is a reminder of his enduring relevance in Polish politics and his determination to leave a lasting legacy.