Poland’s Chief of General Staff, Gen. Jarosław Kukuła, spoke on Wednesday at the European Forum for New Ideas, warning that the greatest threat to Poland and Europe is Russia and urging rapid security investment.
Opening remarks at EFNI
Gen. Kukuła took the floor during the forum’s opening ceremony on Wednesday, addressing the future of Poland amid global challenges such as rising nationalism, China’s geopolitical influence, and the threat posed by Russia.
Global and domestic challenges
He referred to a “Cold War demon” resurfacing and stressed that “we were already safe” only because of sustained investments in security, which he said are essential for preserving sovereignty, freedom, and future development.
When asked whether a war would erupt, Kukuła answered that it would largely depend on the decisions of the Polish people and the nation’s posture.
Russia: the greatest threat
Kukuła identified the Russian Federation as the most significant danger to Poland and all of Europe. He noted that Russia’s power has been eroded by Ukrainian resistance and international support, yet the country continues to rebuild its forces and gain combat experience.
He warned that a potential influx of 1.5 million troops, combined with nuclear deterrence, signals readiness for a large land invasion and highlights the lessons from the early phase of the Ukraine conflict.
Building a war‑resistant Poland – four pillars
According to Kukuła, Poland must rapidly build a defensive capability based on resilient domestic resources, stronger ties with the United States, robust NATO cooperation, and an active role in the European Union.
He outlined these elements as the first pillar—own defense potential—followed by bilateral US relations, NATO membership, and EU integration.
Modernising the Polish Armed Forces – the “big seven”
Poland’s army is undergoing its largest transformation, with 150 modernization programmes and an unprecedented tempo. Kukuła described the “big seven” directions: intelligent mass, cultural re‑engineering, innovation, multi‑domain operational capability, deterrence through penalty, deterrence through anti‑access, and the integration of drones, robotics, and artificial intelligence.
He emphasised that these initiatives aim to create a lethal force capable of defeating adversaries and contributing decisively to NATO objectives.
Closing – Donald Tusk’s address
The EFNI, which opened on Wednesday, will conclude on Friday with a speech by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, focusing on security issues and the future of the European community.
