Poland's Military Training Initiative: Tusk Outlines Mandatory Plan for Men

In a bold move to enhance Poland's military capabilities, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced plans for a mandatory military training initiative for all men, aiming to prepare a robust army in light of regional threats.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk has unveiled a significant initiative to implement military training for every adult male in Poland. During a recent address to the Sejm, the Polish parliament, Tusk emphasized the government's commitment to prepare a structured training model by the year's end, equipping men with the necessary skills in the event of conflict.

Tusk pointed out that the Ukrainian army currently boasts around 800,000 soldiers, contrasted with Russia's 1.3 million. Consequently, he expressed the aspiration to expand the Polish military strength, including reservists, to a force of 500,000 from the current 200,000. “We need to establish an army of half a million in Poland, encompassing reservists,” he stated.

The Prime Minister also mentioned ongoing discussions with the Minister of Defence about various strategies to ensure individuals outside the military are trained as competent soldiers during conflict periods. While Tusk noted that military preparedness is generally more associated with men, he acknowledged that women could also participate in training programs.

In alignment with this defense initiative, Poland has set an ambitious target of spending 4.7% of its GDP on defense this year, the highest obligation among NATO allies. Tusk proposed increasing this expenditure to 5% and highlighted suggestions from President Duda to amend the constitution, ensuring a minimum defense spending level of 4%.

Furthermore, Tusk indicated his support for Poland's potential withdrawal from international treaties such as the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use of antipersonnel landmines, and the Dublin Convention, related to cluster munitions. This indicates a shift in Poland's defense policy as it seeks to fortify its military response mechanisms amid ongoing tensions in the region.