In a military training facility near Wroclaw, Poland, ordinary civilians are uniting in response to rising tensions with Russia, with many signing up for hands-on military training. Under the guidance of a Polish soldier, participants receive essential skills ranging from shooting to first aid and emergency protocols. "The times are dangerous now, we need to be ready," says Captain Adam Sielicki, the training program's coordinator, amplifying the urgency as the program sees overwhelming interest.
With Poland geographically situated between Ukraine and Russia, it’s investing nearly 5% of its GDP in defense, the highest in NATO. Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized aspirations to cultivate "the strongest army in the region," leading to significant military purchases from the United States, Sweden, and South Korea.
Attendee Dariusz expresses his readiness to defend Poland, while Agata shares her concerns about the shift in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump, which has added layers of anxiety about reliance on American support. This sentiment is echoed among many participants; they feel a distinct need for self-preparedness given the evolving political landscape.
Wanda Traczyk-Stawska, a 98-year-old World War II veteran, recalls the last Russian invasion and supports Poland's military expansion. Her experiences resonate with younger generations, who are absorbing the weight of history and the importance of preparation.
In addition to military training, a surge in interest for bomb shelters highlights fear among citizens, with companies reporting unprecedented demand. Despite this, a recent poll indicates that a significant portion of the population has reservations about joining the military, preferring instead the option to flee.
As Poland grapples with its historical legacy and its present geopolitical stance, the citizens reflect a mix of readiness and trepidation about their country's future, encapsulating the complex emotions surrounding potential conflict and national defense in today’s climate.
With Poland geographically situated between Ukraine and Russia, it’s investing nearly 5% of its GDP in defense, the highest in NATO. Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized aspirations to cultivate "the strongest army in the region," leading to significant military purchases from the United States, Sweden, and South Korea.
Attendee Dariusz expresses his readiness to defend Poland, while Agata shares her concerns about the shift in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump, which has added layers of anxiety about reliance on American support. This sentiment is echoed among many participants; they feel a distinct need for self-preparedness given the evolving political landscape.
Wanda Traczyk-Stawska, a 98-year-old World War II veteran, recalls the last Russian invasion and supports Poland's military expansion. Her experiences resonate with younger generations, who are absorbing the weight of history and the importance of preparation.
In addition to military training, a surge in interest for bomb shelters highlights fear among citizens, with companies reporting unprecedented demand. Despite this, a recent poll indicates that a significant portion of the population has reservations about joining the military, preferring instead the option to flee.
As Poland grapples with its historical legacy and its present geopolitical stance, the citizens reflect a mix of readiness and trepidation about their country's future, encapsulating the complex emotions surrounding potential conflict and national defense in today’s climate.
