The Polish government is considering mandatory military exercises due to challenges in recruiting new soldiers, former Minister of National Defense Mariusz Błaszczak stated recently on social media platform X. According to Błaszczak, this proposal is destined to fail, echoing his skepticism toward Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s administration.
On Friday, addressing the parliament regarding international security and the situation in Ukraine, Prime Minister Tusk highlighted the scale of current conflicts, noting Ukraine’s forces number around 800,000 soldiers, while Russia has approximately 1.3 million. Emphasizing Poland’s need for a robust defense, Tusk proposed expanding the Polish army, including reservists, to about half a million individuals.
“Preparations are underway for large-scale military training involving every adult male in Poland,” Tusk announced.
However, Błaszczak expressed doubts about the government’s ability to implement such ambitious plans, accusing the administration of being “completely lost.” He pointed out conflicting statements between Tusk, who referenced the compulsory Swiss model, and Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, who suggested participation would remain voluntary.
“You know how this will likely end? As usual with Tusk—only with promises,” Błaszczak argued, claiming the government scheduled the plan’s completion by year-end purposely, expecting the issue to fade from public attention.
Błaszczak reiterated that mandatory conscription should be a last resort, criticizing the current administration for its inability to effectively recruit and manage volunteers.