In a decisive move to bolster national security, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced on March 7, 2025, that Poland will introduce military training for every adult male to create a robust reserve force. Speaking to the Sejm, Tusk outlined a vision to transform civilians into "full-fledged soldiers" capable of defending the nation in wartime, with a target of building an army of 500,000, including reservists—more than doubling the current 200,000 active troops. This initiative, set to be finalized by year-end, responds to escalating threats from Russia’s war in Ukraine and uncertainties over U.S. support under President Trump.

Poland, a NATO frontline state, has long prioritized defense, spending 4.7% of its GDP on the military in 2025—the highest in the alliance—with plans to reach 5%. The training program, distinct from the conscription phased out in 2008, draws inspiration from models like Switzerland’s, where men undergo periodic training and remain in reserve. While mandatory for men, Tusk emphasized that women can volunteer, acknowledging war as "still to a greater extent the domain of men." Details on duration, frequency, and incentives remain under development, but the goal is clear: a reserve force "adequate to potential threats."

The announcement has stirred domestic debate. Opposition leader Jarosław Kaczyński of Law and Justice endorsed the concept but urged a cultural shift toward a "chivalric ethos" of male duty. Public reaction, reflected in X posts, ranges from support for preparedness to concerns over feasibility. As Poland fortifies its eastern border—already a hub of NATO activity—the plan underscores its proactive stance in a volatile region. With the model still taking shape, this ambitious step signals Poland’s resolve to ensure its citizens are ready for any future conflict, redefining national defense in uncertain times.