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.
Constructing a more sizable and proficient military
Building a larger and more capable force
“We require a force of 500,000, incorporating reservists,” Tusk stated in his address. “With strategic organization, we can guarantee that individuals not engaged in full-time military service are thoroughly trained and ready to protect the nation in times of crisis.”
“We need an army of half a million, including reservists,” Tusk said during his speech. “If we organize this wisely, we can ensure that those who do not serve in the military full-time are fully trained and prepared to defend the nation during a crisis.”
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.
Tusk’s statement emerges as Poland considers the potential alignment with France’s offer to extend its nuclear protection to European partners. While wary of the consequences of this type of agreement, Tusk admitted that having its own nuclear arsenal would bolster Poland’s security. Yet, he pointed out that obtaining nuclear weapons would involve a prolonged process needing extensive agreement.
“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.”
Demands for changes in international agreement policies
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.
Preparing for a changing security landscape
Tusk’s proposal has captured the attention of everyday citizens as well. Mirosław Kaznowski, the deputy mayor of Milanówek, a small town close to Warsaw, recounted instances of locals purchasing bomb shelters due to rising worries about potential conflicts. He observed an increase in demand for cost-effective underground shelters—intended for residential and commercial use—highlighting the general apprehension among the populace.
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.
These local efforts mirror the broader national push to prepare for potential emergencies. By equipping civilians with both training and resources, Poland is seeking to foster a culture of resilience and readiness.
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 financial strain of heightened defense budgets has sparked discussions on priorities. Designating 5% of GDP for defense signifies a major financial undertaking, sparking worries about its effects on other public investment areas. Nevertheless, Tusk insists that national security should be the foremost concern 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
As Poland makes significant strides to enhance its military strength, its position within NATO and the wider European security framework is continuously transforming. The nation’s considerable defense investments and readiness to adopt unconventional strategies indicate an increasing resolve to establish itself as a vital participant in regional security.
Tusk’s declaration of compulsory military training for men is merely one aspect of a broader initiative to keep Poland ready for any outcome. By updating its military forces, boosting its defense spending, or cultivating a culture of resilience among its citizens, Poland is establishing itself as a frontrunner in tackling Europe’s security issues.
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.
