Polish Konfederacja leaders Krzysztof Bosak and Sławomir Mentzen have clashed over the competence of General Wiesław Kukuła, sparking a significant internal divide within the political coalition.
Mentzen’s critique of military spending
Sławomir Mentzen criticized Chief of General Staff General Wiesław Kukuła, describing him as incompetent regarding his comments on using missiles to intercept drones. Mentzen claimed the General suggested using 100 million PLN missiles to shoot down plywood drones from the eastern border, calling such an approach “unserious.”
Bosak defends military leadership
Krzysztof Bosak responded publicly, stating he has no doubts regarding Kukuła’s competence following multiple meetings and parliamentary visits to the General Staff. Bosak suggested Mentzen was misinformed by advisors and misinterpreted Kukuła’s statements, asserting that the military leadership understands both the economics of war and drone defense challenges.
Responsibility shifts to politicians
Bosak redirected his criticism toward political failures, citing delayed decisions, inadequate army reforms, and questionable equipment purchases. He argued that responsibility for these shortcomings lies with politicians rather than the military, urging against portraying commanders as “idiots” and calling for a substantive debate focused on national interest.
High-level support for Kukuła
Both President Karol Nawrocki and Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz defended General Kukuła. Kosiniak-Kamysz stated that Mentzen’s comments showed an absolute lack of responsibility for national security and a lack of respect for the Polish military and the soldier’s uniform.
Konfederacja organizational structure
Both Bosak and Mentzen are leaders within Konfederacja, a political formation uniting New Hope and the National Movement. Mentzen belongs to New Hope, while Bosak represents the National Movement.