Strategic Resilience in a Time of Rising Tensions
Societal and state resilience must be strengthened as tensions rise and the nation faces aggression below full wartime thresholds. In an interview with the weekend edition of Dziennik Gazeta Prawna, the Deputy Minister of National Defense emphasized the need to prepare for a prolonged contest that could unfold beyond the eastern border.
The courage of troops and Western support
The stalemate observed on the front lines stems from the bravery of Ukrainian servicemen and the substantial military backing provided by Western partners. This combined effort has limited Russia’s ability to claim victory, according to the deputy minister.
He noted that Russia retains markedly larger reserves, especially human resources, which suggests the conflict could endure for an extended period. The takeaway is clear: investing in a resilient society and robust state structures is essential because the country may face sustained aggression through means that fall short of traditional warfare, including disinformation campaigns and cyber operations.
Belarus as a channel for pressure
Responding to questions about the Kremlin’s strategy to bring Belarus into closer alignment, the deputy head of the Ministry of National Defense described a trend of growing influence, with Russian commanders appearing in military units and power structures. Minsk and Moscow are forming combined tactical formations, and this proximity to the homeland is becoming more pronounced.
The defense official stated that the Polish armed forces should number about 300,000 soldiers. In response, two new divisions will be created to strengthen deterrence toward Belarus. This includes a substantial purchase of tanks and artillery, including missiles, as a response to the Brest Gate threat. The accession of Sweden and Finland to NATO is viewed positively, expanding the alliance’s northern border by thousands of kilometers and tying Kremlin forces to the Finnish direction.
When the question arose about whether the government and the opposition should consider a non-aggression framework on security and military matters, the deputy minister stayed firm in his position. He underscored a distinction between responsible politicians who advocate for a sovereign Poland with secure borders and a strong army, and others who dismiss such efforts. Political leaders are invited to move beyond denial and engage constructively in shaping Poland’s defense posture.
On the issue of expanding the army to 300,000 soldiers without reintroducing universal conscription, the deputy noted that basic military service has been restored on a voluntary basis. The aim is to attract about 25,000 participants annually, and last year saw higher-than-expected enrollment. The trend demonstrates public interest in service and contributes to national readiness.
Readers are directed to ongoing reports about the broader security situation, including developments on the ground in Ukraine and evolving NATO dynamics, for a broader context of how national defense policies interact with regional stability and alliance commitments.