Poland is preparing to implement a large-scale military training program for all adult males, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced in a recent speech to the Polish parliament. This initiative comes amid rising concerns over national security and regional stability, particularly in light of Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Tusk emphasized that the government aims to finalize the details of the program in the coming months. “We will try to have a model ready by the end of this year so that every adult male in Poland is trained in the event of war, so that this reserve is comparable and adequate to the potential threats,” he told lawmakers.
Expanding Poland’s Military Capabilities
The proposed training initiative aligns with Poland’s broader defense strategy to increase the size of its armed forces. Currently, the Polish army, including reservists, numbers around 200,000. However, Tusk aims to expand this figure to 500,000, recognizing the vast military strength of both Russia, with approximately 1.3 million soldiers, and Ukraine, which has 800,000 troops.
“We’re talking about the need to have an army of half a million in Poland, including the reservists,” Tusk explained. “If we organize things wisely, and I’m constantly in discussions with the Minister of Defence, we will have to use several courses of action. That means reservists, but also intensive training to make those who do not go into the army fully-fledged and competent soldiers during a conflict.”
While the plan focuses on training men, Tusk acknowledged the possibility of extending military training to women, albeit with a lesser emphasis. “War is still, to a greater extent, the domain of men,” he remarked.
Nuclear Defense Considerations
Beyond conventional military expansion, Poland is also weighing its nuclear defense options. The prime minister stated that his government is “carefully examining” France’s proposal to extend its nuclear protection to Europe. However, Tusk highlighted the need for clarity regarding control over these weapons.
He further noted that Ukraine’s decision to relinquish its nuclear arsenal made it more vulnerable to Russian aggression. While he acknowledged that Poland acquiring its own nuclear weapons is highly unlikely, he affirmed that the country would be safer if it had them. “Today, it is clear that we would be safer if we had our own nuclear arsenal, that is beyond doubt. In any case, the road to that would be very long and there would have to be a consensus too,” he said.
Increased Defense Spending and Strategic Partnerships
Poland has already committed to a defense budget of 4.7% of its GDP in 2024, the highest proportion among NATO members. Tusk is advocating for an increase to 5% of GDP. President Andrzej Duda has also proposed amending the Polish constitution to make 4% defense spending a legal requirement.
Poland has significantly ramped up its arms acquisitions in response to security concerns. It has secured military contracts worth approximately $20 billion with the United States, purchasing M1A2 Abrams battle tanks, F-35 fighter jets, Apache helicopters, Javelin missiles, and artillery rocket systems. Additionally, Poland has signed agreements with South Korea for K2 tanks and FA-50 light combat aircraft.
Reevaluating International Commitments
Amid its defense overhaul, Poland is reconsidering its adherence to certain international treaties. Tusk has expressed support for withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention, which bans the use of anti-personnel landmines, and is also contemplating leaving the Dublin Convention that prohibits cluster munitions.
Public Sentiment and Security Concerns
The Polish public has grown increasingly concerned about national security, especially following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to suspend military aid to Ukraine. Many Poles view supporting Ukraine as crucial to Poland’s own security. The growing anxieties have even led to private-sector initiatives, such as investments in underground bomb shelters.
Mirosław Kaznowski, deputy mayor of Milanówek, a town outside Warsaw, reported that a local entrepreneur has launched a startup focused on building cost-effective bomb shelters for businesses and residences. “Interest is high,” he noted.
Poland’s move to implement universal military training reflects its commitment to national defense and preparedness amid escalating tensions in Eastern Europe. With increased defense spending, strategic alliances, and military training initiatives, Warsaw is positioning itself as a formidable force in the region. As geopolitical uncertainties continue, Poland’s proactive stance underscores its determination to safeguard its sovereignty and security.
