Finns in Awe: Poland to Become “European Military Powerhouse”

The significance of Poland in European defense and security policies is rapidly increasing, according to Finnish media, citing a leading researcher from the University of Helsinki. Katalin Miklóssy believes that Poland will become a superpower by the end of this decade.

The prominent Helsinki newspaper, “Helsingin Sanomat,” published an extensive article on the Polish armed forces. According to the Finns, thanks to record-breaking arms purchases, Poland is “becoming the strongest military power in the Baltic Sea region and in Europe.” The newspaper cites Katalin Miklóssy from the University of Helsinki, who emphasized in an interview that “by the end of this decade, Poland will become a true European power.”

Miklóssy believes it is evident that future Brussels policies will be defined by Eastern European countries such as Poland, which consciously seeks to position itself at the center of the EU.

Poland as a New Superpower in the Eyes of Finns

“The conflict in Ukraine is changing the balance of power in Europe to some extent. People still do not understand the significant shift towards the East. Poland is the leading Eastern European country that aspires to a powerful position in Europe,” said the researcher from the Helsinki University. She further emphasized that Warsaw’s ambition to become a military power in Europe will also impact Finland’s security.

• Poland is a valuable ally for us in defense policy, Miklóssy evaluated.

Once a Controversial Country, Now a Military Power

At the same time, Finnish media openly state that not long ago, Poland, along with Hungary, posed a significant problem for Europe due to “deterioration of the rule of law” in both countries.

• That’s why Finland’s relations with Poland were not particularly warm, explains the Helsinki newspaper, adding that a turning point was the meeting last year between Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki and then Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin.
• Poland’s influence has increased along with the war in Ukraine because it strongly supports Ukraine and advocates for stricter sanctions against Russia, explains Miklóssy.

As Poland aligns itself with the EU and assists Ukraine, the Union – according to the researcher – turns a blind eye to the rule of law issues in the country. However, Brussels’ position towards Hungary remains unchanged because Hungary opposes the EU’s policy towards Russia.

The transformation of Poland from a “problematic child” to an “excellent student” of the EU has also been highlighted in an article by Arndt Freytag von Loringhoven, former German ambassador to Warsaw, published in Politico.

The recognition of Poland’s growing military power by Finnish media showcases the country’s rising influence in European defense and security. Poland’s stance on Ukraine and alignment with EU policies has improved its standing and contributed to its reputation as a potential European powerhouse. As Poland continues to strengthen its position, its role in shaping European policies and its significance in regional security dynamics are set to increase further.

Keywords: Poland, Polish Army, Military