Media: Poland prepares for conflict with Russia

The Polish Armed Forces have launched a new initiative inviting citizens to participate in a summer program titled "Holidays with the Army," offering basic military training amid concerns over potential conflict with Russia.

At various training grounds across eastern Poland, young Polish men and women, many freshly graduated from high school, are engaging in rigorous military exercises under the guidance of seasoned instructors. With assault rifles at hand, participants kneel on grassy fields, meticulously packing survival kits and applying camouflage paint to their faces, learning the essentials of combat readiness, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The programme, aimed at individuals aged 18 to 35, aims to bolster recruitment efforts as Poland expands its military forces, currently numbering 198,000, in light of escalating tensions in the region, including Russia's actions in neighbouring Ukraine. Despite its name suggesting leisure, "Holidays with the Army" is a demanding regimen where recruits rise early for intensive training sessions and maintain disciplined routines, including barracks cleaning duties.

Located approximately 130 kilometres (80 miles) from the Belarusian border, where recent geopolitical tensions have been particularly acute, participants in the program are confined to base without leave, underscoring the seriousness of their training. In exchange for their commitment, recruits receive compensation of 6,000 zlotys ($1,500) for the 28-day programme.

According to military officials, the initiative has garnered significant interest, with training sessions concurrently taking place at 70 sites across Poland.