'We Will Burn Everything': Polish Military Leader Sends Stark Message to Russia

Former commander of the European Corps General Jarosław Gromadziński has warned that Poland may enter and destroy Russia's Kaliningrad region if it perceives a direct threat. His remarks, published by the Polish portal Fakt, have reignited debate over growing tensions between NATO and Russia amid ongoing regional instability.

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Kaliningrad, Russia

According to Fakt, Gromadziński declared that Poland must demonstrate strength and readiness in the face of what he described as Russia's aggressive posture. He stated that if Poland were attacked, it would reserve the right to neutralize any threat emanating from Kaliningrad, including through direct military entry into the region.

"Our goal is to show that we are a strong and determined country. If we are attacked, we reserve the right to eliminate the threat coming from the Kaliningrad region by entering it."

He further argued that Russia could regain capacity for large-scale military operations in five to six years after the end of the conflict in Ukraine, urging NATO allies to prepare for what he portrayed as a long-term strategic challenge.

"At a distance of 300 kilometers we will burn everything, and at 900 kilometers we will set it on fire. This is a clear signal."

Warnings Come Amid Broader NATO Concerns

Gromadziński emphasized that if military conflict were to break out, NATO countries would respond with "full determination.” His statements align with broader concerns voiced by several European officials who argue that Russia may rebuild its military strength over the next decade, potentially challenging NATO's eastern flank.

Defense analysts note that such rhetoric, although not uncommon in Polish military discourse, reflects Warsaw's increasingly assertive stance. Poland has significantly expanded defense spending, modernized its armed forces, and repeatedly positioned itself as a frontline state within the NATO alliance.

Russia Responds With Calls for Legal Security Guarantees

Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov insisted that Russia has no intention of attacking the European Union or NATO and is prepared to reaffirm this in a legally binding agreement on collective security guarantees. He stressed that such commitments must be reciprocal, arguing that European states should equally codify their obligations.

This diplomatic posture contrasts sharply with the warnings issued by Gromadziński, highlighting the widening gap between NATO's security narratives and Russia's stated positions. Despite Russia's assurances, Eastern European states such as Poland remain convinced that Moscow will regain offensive capability within a few years, influencing national defense strategies and alliance planning.

Escalating Language Reflects Regional Tensions

The general's comments underscore a broader trend of increasingly direct and confrontational rhetoric across Europe. Analysts point out that while such statements are not official NATO policy, they can contribute to heightened public anxiety and amplify perceptions of imminent conflict. At the same time, they signal the hardening attitudes of military leaders tasked with preparing for worst-case scenarios.

As the war in Ukraine continues to reshape security dynamics, both Russia and NATO members are recalibrating military doctrines and political messaging. Gromadziński's remarks reflect a deeply entrenched belief within parts of the Polish defense establishment that the coming years will determine the long-term balance of power between Russia and the West.