In response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Poland has experienced a surge in patriotism and a desire to defend the nation. The Polish army has launched a unique initiative called Holidays with the Army, which offers a 28-day boot camp to individuals over 18, including recent high school graduates. Participants in the program will receive 6,000 zlotys (€1,400) and undergo basic military training. The initiative was introduced as Poland expanded its army in response to the escalating conflict in Ukraine, fearing potential aggression from Russia. The Defence Ministry has reported significant interest in the program, with over 11,000 volunteers signing up in response to the perceived threat.
Major Michal Tomczyk, a spokesperson at the Defence Ministry, stated that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has sparked a sense of urgency among Poles to protect their country. The ministry had initially planned for 10,000 volunteers, but the response has exceeded expectations. At the end of the training, volunteers will take a soldier’s oath pledging loyalty to the Republic of Poland, even at the risk of their lives. Participants can then choose to join the professional armed services, Territorial Defence Forces, or serve as reservists. The aim of the program is to train as many citizens as possible to ensure preparedness in the face of potential threats from the east.
The conflict in Ukraine has had a ripple effect on countries in the region, prompting a major security realignment. Nations like Sweden and Finland have abandoned their neutrality to join NATO, while others are considering compulsory conscription. Denmark, for example, plans to expand conscription to include women. In Poland, the threat from Russia feels imminent, with reports of stray Russian missiles landing on Polish territory. The border with Belarus, a Russian ally, has become a point of contention, with migrants arriving daily and occasional violent incidents occurring. Poland views this as part of a hybrid warfare tactic orchestrated by Russia and Belarus against the West.
Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski has accused Russia and Belarus of engineering an assault on Poland’s border, using migration as a tool of hybrid warfare. Russian officials have issued threats against Poland, with former President Dmitry Medvedev calling the country a “dangerous enemy” at risk of losing its statehood. Along Poland’s northern border lies Kaliningrad, a Russian territory believed to house tactical nuclear warheads. Faced with these threats, volunteers like Magdalena Klos have stepped up to take part in training, fulfilling a long-held dream of serving in the military. Klos, a mother of two, feels a sense of pride in wearing the uniform and being prepared for any potential conflict.
The initiative to train volunteers in basic military skills reflects Poland’s commitment to ensuring the readiness of its citizens in the face of increasing security challenges. The program, which has seen an overwhelming response from volunteers, aims to instill a sense of duty and patriotism among participants as they prepare to defend their country. With tensions escalating in the region due to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, Poland is taking proactive steps to fortify its defences and strengthen its armed forces. The willingness of individuals like Magdalena Klos to undergo training and serve their country reflects the strong sense of national pride and determination in Poland to protect its sovereignty and borders. As the security landscape in Eastern Europe continues to evolve, Poland remains vigilant and prepared for any potential threats that may arise.
