General Arkadiusz Szkutnik, commander of Poland’s elite 18th Mechanized Division, announced his retirement after nearly 40 years of military service.
Commander’s Retirement Announcement
General Division Arkadiusz Szkutnik announced he is leaving the military after almost 40 years of service. This decision comes several months after he was appointed to a second term as commander of the elite 18th Mechanized Division.
“Unfortunately, health problems do not allow me to perform duties at the level I expect from myself,” stated the commander of the “Iron Division.” The General assured that his departure has nothing to do with political or personal reasons.
Though retiring, Szkutnik declared: “I remain ready to serve with advice and experience wherever it could benefit the army and Poland.” He previously served in missions in Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan, and from August 2024 to January 2025, commanded the “Safe Podlasie” operation on the border.
Defense Minister’s Response
Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed regret over the general’s departure. “I regret it, because he took the nomination from me. I myself appointed him to this position,” said the minister.
Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized that the decision was based on personal reasons, which Szkutnik presented in a “long list.” The minister affirmed: “There is always a place for him, I am open to cooperation,” and added that a farewell ceremony for the general would take place on Thursday.
The position of commander of the 18th Division will be taken by the current deputy of Gen. Szkutnik, Gen. Dariusz Lewandowski.
President’s Meeting with Service Heads
Minister of National Defense participated in a meeting on January 15 with President Karol Nawrocki and heads of services. Nawrocki had earlier called for such a meeting, which initially did not take place due to the Prime Minister’s supervision over special services in Poland.
Before Independence Day celebrations, the president refused to sign 136 officer nominations and declined to award state decorations to special service officers, which Minister coordinating special services Tomasz Siemoniak called a “fatal decision.”
