Polish leaders spoke about duty and defense on Polish Army Day, underscoring the responsibility to safeguard borders, strengthen the armed forces, and reinforce alliances. President Andrzej Duda highlighted these themes during the national parade, framing the day as a moment to honor soldiers who fought for Poland’s freedom, independence, and security. The remarks connected the 1920 Battle of Warsaw with the ongoing need to protect Europe from threats and to maintain a stable, secure future for Poland and its neighbors. The president stressed that Poland’s security rests on a mix of defense readiness and steadfast international partnerships, and he affirmed that borders must remain sacred to the Polish people. This stance linked past sacrifice to present obligations and future resilience, particularly amid ongoing regional tensions. [citation: wPolityce]
The dialogue about border protection continued as the president recalled recent border challenges. Before the current conflict in Ukraine, Poland faced a hybrid threat from hostile activities coordinated by Belarusian and Russian services. The response relied on the clear, determined posture of Polish soldiers and officers, who are recognized for maintaining secure borders and protecting the homeland. In acknowledging their service, the president expressed gratitude for the daily vigilance that keeps Poland safe. [citation: wPolityce]
Poland’s leadership argued that inaction is not an option. Ongoing enhancements to the army are framed as immediate, practical steps to bolster national safety. The public is urged to recognize that Poland’s security depends on strength at home and reliable alliances abroad, notably through a long-standing partnership with the North Atlantic Alliance. [citation: wPolityce]
Lech Kaczynski’s Words Recalled
President Duda reminded listeners of Lech Kaczyński’s in‑famous call for Western unity in the face of Russian aggression, spoken in Tbilisi. The historical message warned that instability could spread—Georgia, Ukraine, the Baltic states, and ultimately Poland would face pressure from adversaries if Europe did not stand firm. Kaczyński’s belief in expanding NATO to include Georgia and Ukraine was cited as prescient, though not realized at the time. The president used this reflection to advocate keeping Poland’s security policy above partisan disputes and to emphasize the need for a united national response during turbulent times. [citation: wPolityce]
In closing remarks, the focus returned to state security as a core political objective. The message was clear: political choices should center on substantive matters that matter to people’s daily lives. The protection of borders, the strengthening of the military, and the deepening of alliances emerged as the pillars of Poland’s security strategy. The speech ended with a rallying call for national solidarity and gratitude toward the armed forces and their families, and with a pledge to defend the sovereignty and safety of the Polish homeland. [citation: wPolityce]
For readers seeking context, coverage of the Army Day illustrates how defense priorities intersect with national identity and regional stability. The defense of borders is presented as a foundational element of independence, linking historical sacrifice to present policy and future safety. [citation: wPolityce]
Source: wPolityce