In a climate marked by uncertainty, Polish citizens are turning to military training as tensions with Russia escalate. At a military facility near Wroclaw, civilians of all ages are lining up to engage in programs designed to prepare them for the unthinkable—a military assault. The "Train with the Army" initiative, overseen by Captain Adam Sielicki, is drawing participants eager to learn survival skills, including shooting, first aid, and hand-to-hand combat.
"The times are dangerous now, we need to be ready," asserts Captain Sielicki, highlighting the program's overwhelming popularity and the government's intent to expand to ensure that every adult male receives military training. This comes at a crucial time as Poland allocates nearly 5% of its GDP to defense—a figure that stands as the highest within NATO.
Recent statements from Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasize Poland's goal to create "the strongest army in the region," driving significant military expenditures on aircraft, naval vessels, and advanced weaponry from allies such as the U.S. and South Korea.
Dariusz, one of the participants, has unyielding resolve, claiming he would be among the first to fight should conflict arise. "History has taught us that we must be prepared to defend ourselves on our own," he states. Agata, another civilian taking part in the training, expresses heightened concerns regarding U.S. leadership and its implications for Poland's security amidst fears that current alliances may falter.
These sentiments resonate deeply in Poland, where historical memories of Russian occupation linger. Ninety-eight-year-old Wanda Traczyk-Stawska, who experienced the last Russian invasion in 1939, echoes these fears, advocating for a well-armed Poland. Current defense initiatives aim to double the size of the armed forces to half a million personnel, enhancing Poland's standing as a key military player within NATO.
Despite the growing emphasis on military readiness, public sentiment remains complex. A recent survey indicated that a mere 10.7% of Polish adults expressed willingness to join the military in the event of war, while many young individuals voiced reluctance to engage, perceiving escape as a more viable option.
As panic drives requests for bomb shelters, a local entrepreneur reports a surge in inquiries, revealing a growing sense of urgency among Poles. "People are building these shelters simply because they don't know what to expect tomorrow," he notes, reflecting the broader uncertainty enveloping Poland and its military future. As rising tensions transform public consciousness, the country stands at a crossroads, grappling with the delicate balance between preparation and fear.
