Poland shares borders with both Russia and Ukraine, making it a frontline country if conflict spreads. The war in Ukraine has made many Poles realize that peace is not guaranteed. Recent political changes in the United States, like Donald Trump’s election and talk of withdrawing US troops from Europe, have made people in Poland feel even more vulnerable12.
How Ordinary Poles Are Getting Ready
1. Military Training for Everyone
Polish people of all ages are signing up for military training. Programs like “Train with the Army” teach citizens how to use firearms, defend themselves in hand-to-hand combat, give emergency medical aid, and use gas masks12. These training sessions are so popular that the government is planning to expand them, aiming to train every adult male and offer opportunities for women as well123.
2. Building Bomb Shelters
Companies that build bomb shelters are seeing a huge increase in demand. People want to protect their families from possible attacks, including nuclear threats. These shelters come with bunk beds, ventilation systems, and enough supplies to survive for days or weeks1.
3. Teaching Survival Skills in Schools
Poland has started teaching security and survival skills in schools. Students as young as 14 are learning how to handle firearms and what to do in an emergency. This new education program is part of a bigger plan to make sure everyone knows how to stay safe if war breaks out3.
4. Expanding the Polish Army
The Polish government is rapidly increasing the size of its military. The goal is to have 500,000 soldiers and reservists, making Poland’s army one of the largest in NATO after the United States23. This includes buying new tanks, fighter jets, and missile defense systems from countries like the US and South Korea4.
5. Strengthening Borders
Poland is building strong defenses along its borders with Russia and Belarus. This includes bunkers, minefields, anti-tank obstacles, and high-tech surveillance systems. The “East Shield” project is expected to make it much harder for any enemy to invade Poland by surprise2.
How Are People Feeling?
Many Poles say they would “take up arms” to defend their country if necessary. They remember their history-Poland has been invaded before, and many believe it is better to be ready than caught off guard1. However, not everyone feels the same. Some young people say they would rather leave the country than fight, showing that fear and uncertainty are real1.
Poland’s Record Defense Spending
The Polish government is spending more on defense than ever before-almost 5% of the country’s total economy4. This money is being used to buy weapons, train soldiers, and build new infrastructure to keep the country safe. Prime Minister Donald Tusk says there is “no turning back” from this effort, as the risk of war is too great to ignore4.
What About NATO and the EU?
Poland is a member of NATO and the European Union, but many Poles worry that help from allies might not come fast enough if Russia attacks. That’s why they are focusing on being able to defend themselves first, while still working closely with their partners in Europe and America234.
The Human Side: Stories from Ordinary Poles
- Dariusz, a trainee in Wroclaw, says he would be the “first to volunteer” if Poland is attacked. He believes that “we cannot depend on others” and must be ready to defend the country ourselves1.
- Agata, who attends military training with her friend, feels more at risk after hearing about possible US troop withdrawals. She says, “If we are unprepared and Russia strikes, we could easily become their captives”1.
- Wanda, a 98-year-old who lived through previous invasions, says, “It is preferable to be a well-armed nation than to wait for a crisis. I am a soldier who understands that weapons are paramount”1.
Will Ordinary Poles Really Fight?
A recent poll shows that only about 10% of adults would volunteer for military service if war starts, while many others say they would try to escape1. This shows that, while many are preparing, not everyone feels ready to risk their lives. Still, the overall mood in Poland is one of determination and caution.
What Does the Future Hold?
Poland’s preparations are a sign of the times. With war raging in Ukraine and uncertainty about support from allies, Poles are taking their safety into their own hands. Whether it’s through military training, building shelters, or teaching survival skills, ordinary people are doing everything they can to be ready for whatever comes next.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why are Poles worried about a Russian invasion?
Poland borders Russia and Ukraine, and the ongoing war in Ukraine has made many Poles fear that Russia could attack Poland next123.
Q2: What steps are ordinary Poles taking to prepare?
They are joining military training programs, building bomb shelters, and learning survival skills in schools. The government is also expanding the army and strengthening border defenses1234.
Q3: Is everyone in Poland willing to fight?
Not everyone. Some people say they would defend their country, while others, especially young people, say they would try to leave if war breaks out1.
Q4: How much is Poland spending on defense?
Poland is spending nearly 5% of its GDP on defense, which is the highest in NATO and the European Union4.
Q5: Will NATO and the EU help Poland if Russia attacks?
Poland is a member of both, but many Poles worry that help might not come quickly enough, so they are focusing on self-defense first234.
Poland’s story is a powerful reminder: when danger looms, ordinary people can do extraordinary things to protect their home. Whether you live in Poland or anywhere else, their preparations offer lessons in courage, community, and the importance of being ready for the unexpected.
