Poland is set to introduce military training for all adult men as part of a national security initiative, Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed. Speaking in the Sejm on Friday, he outlined a plan aimed at expanding Poland’s army to 500,000 troops.
Tusk’s Vision for Military Expansion
“Preparations are underway to ensure that every adult male in Poland undergoes military training to become fully prepared for conflict,” Tusk stated. The government intends to finalize the training framework by the end of the year, equipping Polish men with essential wartime skills.
Currently, Poland’s military consists of 200,000 soldiers, with plans to increase that number to 300,000 soon. The broader initiative aligns with European security concerns as U.S. defense commitments waver.
Poland Strengthens Defense Amid Changing Global Alliances
With declining U.S. support for European security, Poland has reassessed its defense priorities, joining other European nations in bolstering military preparedness.
“Poland’s situation and, above all, Ukraine’s position have become more difficult, and we must act accordingly,” Tusk emphasized.
He noted that security guarantees for Ukraine appear uncertain, necessitating stronger European-led defense efforts. As part of these discussions, Tusk revealed that he explored nuclear protection options with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Referencing Ukraine’s vulnerability after surrendering its nuclear weapons, he suggested Poland must consider advanced military capabilities, including nuclear deterrence. “This is a race for security, not for war,” he stressed.
Poland Joins Other European Nations in Expanding Military Training
Poland has been a key ally of Ukraine since Russia’s invasion, significantly increasing its defense budget. In 2024, Poland allocated 4.2% of its GDP to NATO, the highest share among alliance members, with plans to raise it to 4.7%.
With the largest army in Europe and the third-largest in NATO after the U.S. and Turkey, Poland continues to strengthen its military. The proposed training program aligns Poland with Switzerland, Finland, and Lithuania, countries that already mandate military service.
Lithuania, which shares borders with Russia and Belarus, currently drafts 3,900 men aged 18–23 for nine months but is considering female conscription. Additionally, Poland, Finland, and Lithuania are reviewing their membership in the Ottawa Convention, which bans anti-personnel mines.
Compulsory Training for Men, Voluntary for Women
Tusk confirmed that all adult Polish men would be required to undergo military training, though specific details remain undecided. Women may volunteer but will not be obligated to participate.
“War remains primarily a male domain,” he remarked.
A European Parliament report found that only 11 of the EU’s 27 member states, including Poland, Finland, and Lithuania, permit women in frontline combat roles. As discussions on European security continue, Tusk believes his proposal will solidify Poland’s role in defending the continent.
“Poland’s duty is to secure its eastern border, which is also NATO’s and the EU’s frontier,” he declared.
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