General Polko: Russia is testing Poland; we must not yield to fear

Retired Gen. Roman Polko asserts that Russia's actions targeting Poland extend beyond traditional military operations, characterizing the current situation as a prolonged hybrid war. Moscow, he explained, is systematically testing Poland's security infrastructure to gauge the speed of its threat detection systems, the efficiency of its decision-making protocols, and the responsiveness of its air force. These probing actions, Polko elaborated, provide Russian intelligence services with critical data to evaluate the operational readiness and procedures of the Polish armed forces. He emphasized that modern conflicts are not confined to the battlefield but increasingly involve informational and cognitive warfare aimed at eroding societal morale and fostering fear. "Today, cognitive warfare, warfare for morale, plays a huge role. We cannot afford to succumb to the narrative of fear," Polko stated. Polko also drew parallels to Russia's justification for its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, citing the Kremlin's propaganda narrative of a "special military operation" and alleged "denazification." He commended Ukraine's technological advancements in recent years, particularly highlighting the innovative approach of former Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, whose dismissal he considered a loss. Polko expressed concern over Ukraine's internal political conflicts, suggesting that politicians are prioritizing infighting over national security. Crucially, Polko underscored that supporting Ukraine's resistance against Russia is fundamentally in Poland's best interest. He urged Polish leaders, specifically referencing a hypothetical stance by a politician named Czarnka against aiding Ukraine, to recognize that a resilient Ukraine is Poland's greatest security asset. "Ukraine resisting Russia is the greatest foundation of our security. And American generals say this. If we trust them, then we should finally believe them," he asserted. Addressing potential diplomatic tensions, Polko criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's actions, including awarding a distinction to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. He advocated for unity within Poland on security matters, emphasizing that Russia, not Ukraine, is the source of hybrid threats. Maintaining strong relations between Warsaw and Kyiv is vital, Polko concluded, especially given the presence of approximately one million Ukrainian citizens in Poland, making political conflicts detrimental to both nations.

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Today, cognitive warfare, warfare for morale, plays a huge role. We cannot afford to succumb to the narrative of fear.