As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continues, Poland is implementing new measures to prepare its younger generation for potential threats. Children as young as 14 are now participating in mandatory gun training sessions, focusing on conflict response and tactical rescue techniques. To ensure safety, schools utilize laser guns instead of live ammunition during these one-hour weekly lessons. Eighth graders in primary schools receive theoretical instruction on safe weapon handling, while secondary school students aged 14-16 begin basic shooting lessons. This laser-based training program will be rolled out across all 18,000 of Poland’s schools; previously, such training was optional.
These changes, orchestrated by Poland’s National Defense Ministry, are a direct response to what the country perceives as a growing threat to national security stemming from the ongoing war in Ukraine. Poland shares a border with both Russia (including the Kaliningrad region) and Belarus, a Russian ally. Earlier this year, Poland’s army chief issued a stark warning about the increasing likelihood of conflict with Russia, urging preparations for a potential war. Reflecting this heightened sense of urgency, Poland plans to significantly increase its defense spending in 2025, allocating a $48.7 billion budget—a more than $7 billion increase from the previous year.