Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has unveiled a comprehensive plan to require all adult men in Poland to undergo compulsory military training. Addressing the Sejm, the Polish parliament, Tusk detailed strategies to ready the country against possible security challenges, highlighting the importance of a robust and well-trained military reserve. The initiative, anticipated to be completed by year-end, seeks to equip every adult man with skills to face current warfare challenges.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has announced a sweeping initiative to introduce mandatory military training for all adult men in Poland. Speaking to the Polish parliament, the Sejm, Tusk outlined plans to prepare the nation for potential security threats, emphasizing the need for a stronger and more prepared military reserve. The proposed system, which is expected to be finalized by the end of the year, aims to train every adult male to meet the challenges of modern conflict.
The announcement reflects Poland’s increasing focus on defense and military preparedness, particularly in light of the ongoing war in neighboring Ukraine. Tusk argued that bolstering Poland’s military capabilities is essential to ensuring the country’s security, stating that the goal is to expand Poland’s army, including reservists, to 500,000 personnel—more than double the current size.
Building a larger and more capable force
“We require an army with 500,000 personnel, reservists included,” Tusk declared in his address. “If we manage this efficiently, we can guarantee that individuals not serving in the military permanently are thoroughly trained and ready to protect the country in a time of crisis.”
Although the main emphasis is on training men, Tusk mentioned that women could also participate in military training programs; however, he stressed that warfare is still “primarily a male domain.” This initiative demonstrates Poland’s commitment to adjusting its defense strategies in response to the changing geopolitical environment in Europe.
Military expenditure and global alliances
Poland has pledged to substantially boost its defense budget, dedicating 4.7% of its GDP to military spending this year—the largest share among NATO members. Tusk suggested increasing this amount to 5%, highlighting the government’s dedication to enhancing the country’s defense strengths. Previously, Polish President Andrzej Duda proposed a constitutional amendment to mandate a minimum defense expenditure level of 4% of GDP.
Poland has already committed to significantly increasing its defense spending, allocating 4.7% of its GDP to military expenditures this year—the highest proportion among NATO member states. Tusk proposed raising this figure to 5%, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s defense capabilities. Earlier, Polish President Andrzej Duda suggested amending the constitution to make a minimum defense spending level of 4% of GDP mandatory.
The Polish government has also ramped up its military modernization efforts, signing major arms deals with the United States and South Korea. Recent purchases include 250 M1A2 Abrams battle tanks, 32 F-35 fighter jets, 96 Apache helicopters, and advanced missile systems. Additionally, Poland has acquired K2 tanks and FA-50 light combat aircraft from South Korea as part of its broader strategy to enhance its military strength.
“Ukraine’s invasion following its relinquishment of nuclear weapons illustrates the dangers of not having this deterrent,” Tusk stated. “Even though it is an unlikely scenario, it is evident that possessing our own nuclear capability would enhance our security.”
Advocating for changes in international agreements
In its defense restructuring, Poland is contemplating exiting international treaties that limit specific weapon categories. Tusk showed support for Poland’s departure from the Ottawa Convention, which outlaws antipersonnel landmines, along with the Dublin Convention, which bans cluster munitions. These actions would signal a major change in Poland’s military stance and illustrate the government’s readiness to consider more assertive defense strategies.
As part of its defense overhaul, Poland is also considering withdrawing from international agreements that restrict certain types of weaponry. Tusk expressed support for Poland’s withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, which bans the use of antipersonnel landmines, as well as the Dublin Convention, which prohibits cluster munitions. These moves would mark a significant shift in Poland’s military policy and reflect the government’s willingness to explore more aggressive defense measures.
Poland’s increased focus on military preparedness has been driven by heightened concerns about regional security following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. For many Poles, supporting Ukraine and strengthening their own defenses are seen as interconnected priorities. However, recent developments, such as the suspension of U.S. military aid to Ukraine, have raised anxieties about Poland’s future security.
The conflict in Ukraine has significantly influenced defense strategies throughout Europe, and Poland is no different. Tusk’s administration is making moves to guarantee that Poland is prepared for possible dangers, with civilian military training being a key component of this initiative. The prime minister stressed that Poland’s security strategy needs to stay flexible and forward-thinking to address shifting challenges.
The war in Ukraine has had a profound impact on defense policies across Europe, and Poland is no exception. Tusk’s government is taking steps to ensure Poland is ready for any potential threats, with military training for civilians forming a central pillar of this effort. The prime minister emphasized that Poland’s security strategy must remain adaptable and proactive in the face of evolving challenges.
Tusk’s plan has sparked interest among ordinary citizens as well. Mirosław Kaznowski, the deputy mayor of Milanówek, a small town near Warsaw, shared stories of residents investing in bomb shelters amid growing concerns about future conflicts. He noted that demand for affordable underground shelters—designed for both homes and businesses—has surged, reflecting widespread unease among the population.
Navigating the delicate interplay of security and diplomacy
Although Poland’s assertive defense strategies have gained domestic backing, they have also sparked discussions about balancing military readiness with diplomatic relations. Opponents contend that exiting important arms agreements or seeking nuclear capabilities might jeopardize relations with allies and weaken international initiatives to control the use of hazardous weapons.
Moreover, the economic strain of heightened defense expenditure has sparked discussions regarding priorities. Committing 5% of GDP to defense signifies a substantial financial pledge, leading to worries about its effect on other sectors of public investment. Nonetheless, Tusk insists that national security must be prioritized given the present geopolitical situation.
Additionally, the economic burden of increased defense spending has prompted debate about priorities. Allocating 5% of GDP to defense represents a significant financial commitment, raising concerns about its impact on other areas of public investment. However, Tusk maintains that national security must take precedence in light of the current geopolitical climate.
Poland’s changing leadership in European defense
Poland’s evolving role in European defense
As Poland takes bold steps to bolster its military capabilities, its role within NATO and the broader European security framework continues to evolve. The country’s substantial investments in defense and its willingness to pursue unconventional policies signal a growing determination to assert itself as a key player in regional security.
Tusk’s announcement of mandatory military training for men is just one part of a larger effort to ensure Poland remains prepared for any eventuality. Whether through modernizing its armed forces, increasing its defense budget, or fostering a culture of resilience among civilians, Poland is positioning itself as a leader in addressing Europe’s security challenges.
While the road ahead is fraught with complexities, Poland’s commitment to strengthening its defenses underscores the importance of proactive measures in an increasingly uncertain world. By prioritizing preparedness and adaptability, the nation aims to secure a safer future for its citizens and contribute to the stability of the region.