General Dariusz Łukowski has officially taken command of the National Security Bureau (BBN) following his appointment by President Andrzej Duda on February 4, 2025. This move replaces the previous head, Jacek Siewiera, who resigned from the position claiming personal commitments, including acceptance of a scholarship at the University of Oxford.
The changeover ceremony took place at the Presidential Palace, where President Duda recognized Siewiera’s contributions by awarding him the Knight's Cross of the Order of Polonia Restituta. During his tenure starting October 11, 2022, Siewiera focused on stabilizing the bureau’s functions and fostering international relationships.
President Duda emphasized during the ceremony the necessity to adapt to the present political climate, stating, "The matters assigned to newly appointed ministers are responsible and difficult amid the current political situation." The president outlined urgent tasks for Łukowski, including preparations for the upcoming NATO summit and collaboration with the United States. Duda noted, "We must work well with the new US administration and discuss plans for building security zones around NATO's eastern flank."
General Łukowski's appointment appears strategically motivated, considering his experience. Prior to becoming BBN's head, he held the position of Deputy Head since March 2022 and had been associated with the bureau since November 2020. His military career spans decades, marked by ascending ranks and pivotal roles, particularly within logistics.
During his years of service, Łukowski demonstrated his capacity to manage operational crises effectively. Speaking of the upcoming challenges, he asserted, "Army officers need to demonstrate their abilities to manage crises." His military credentials were underlined at the ceremony, where Duda also remarked on the complexity of the duties at hand.
Another notable aspect of this transition was the emphasis on national security matters amid the uncertain geopolitical environment, particularly relevant to the war in Ukraine. President Duda illuminated the gravity of the situation, indicating, "Not every ending to this war will be the right one to conclude." This sentiment indicates the nuanced approach the government plans to take under Łukowski's leadership at BBN.
Lastly, Łukowski concluded his discourse with journalists, mentioning the structural transitions necessary for him to assume the ministerial role. "I have to leave the active service first before taking the ministerial position," he stated, acknowledging the formal processes required for this significant promotion.
Overall, General Dariusz Łukowski’s ascent to head the BBN signals continuity and stability within Poland’s security apparatus, reinforced by his military background and strategic vision as the nation navigates complex and urgent security challenges.