Poland's army to become Europe's largest, PM Tusk says

Poland's military is set to become the largest in Europe, Prime Minister Donald Tusk declared, emphasizing the nation's commitment to strength and independence in a volatile geopolitical climate. Speaking at a naval parade in Gdynia, Tusk asserted that a strong military is the only way to avoid war, stating, "Our army, our armed forces, will soon be the largest in Europe."

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Our army, our armed forces, will soon be the largest in Europe.

This expansion is driven by the need for increased security investments amid challenging regional dynamics, not by political ambition. Tusk directly addressed potential adversaries, including those attempting illegal border crossings, declaring, "You will not pass without the permission of the Polish state." He highlighted the "Eastern Shield" defense project and enhanced border protection with Belarus and Russia as key components of this strategy.

Beyond military might, Tusk identified a strong economy, significant military investment, robust alliances, and prudent foreign policy as pillars of Polish security. He cited strategic partnerships around the Baltic Sea, as well as with France, Great Britain, and the Netherlands, as examples. Tusk also reaffirmed Poland's support for Ukraine in its war with Russia, framing it as essential for Poland's own security.

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You will not pass without the permission of the Polish state.

However, Tusk also turned his attention inward, warning against internal political divisions that he believes weaken the nation. He accused the opposition of attempting to sow discord and misidentifying Poland's primary threats. "Those parties, those politicians who try to convince you that our main problem is Europe, that our enemy is Ukraine, that the EU is not needed, and that Germans are the worst enemy. They somehow forget about Russia, a dangerous neighbor waging war near our borders," Tusk stated, referencing the ongoing conflict and its proximity.

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Today we proudly say to the whole world, but above all to those who would like to illegally cross our borders or invade by force: you will not pass without the permission of the Polish state.

He concluded by linking national security to internal unity, recalling the Battle of Warsaw and the importance of preventing betrayal and irresponsibility within Poland. Tusk's address underscored a dual focus on external defense and internal cohesion as crucial for the nation's future.

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We can discuss Polish-Ukrainian relations, but no one can doubt that we are helping Ukraine in the war with Russia for our security. We are doing this for ourselves, for Polish women and men, for no one else.