Expert Albert Świdziński warns that if a full‑scale conflict erupts within the next five years, Poland will be poorly prepared, according to a conversation with Grzegorz Sroczyński.
Poland Unprepared for Chaos
In an interview with Grzegorz Sroczyński, Albert Świdziński of the think tank Strategy & Future cautioned that Poland is not ready for the chaos that a full‑scale conflict would bring. He said, “It could happen; we won’t be doing very well.” Świdziński emphasized that Poland would most likely neither fight nor function under a scenario where NATO immediately pours in all its resources, assuming NATO remains functional beyond mere paper existence.
Uncertainty of NATO’s Support
Świdziński cautioned that we cannot assume NATO will automatically provide robust aid; its ability to do so hinges on whether the alliance continues to function in any meaningful way. Thus, Poland cannot rely on a seamless pool of NATO resources.
Ukraine’s Stability Determines Conflict Probability
The likelihood that war will erupt in the next five years hinges on how effectively Ukraine can preserve its sovereignty and whether a severe breakdown occurs there. In the event of an implosion—an outcome Świdziński cannot rule out—other global players would be interested in preventing a total collapse.
He also noted that he cannot accurately assess Russia’s economic condition, citing gaps in information and omitted facts. Many actors in the international system, he added, would hope the situation does not collapse entirely.
Preparedness if a Major Conflict Occurs
Given the current reality, if a large conflict were to erupt—an outcome that cannot be ruled out—Poland would actually be well prepared for it, according to Świdziński.
