THE EASTERN FRONT

Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, Poland's Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister, on nuclear weapons, getting used to war, and what Europe must do to protect itself

- TOMASZ SEKIELSKI

NEWSWEEK POLSKA: Are you a minister of peace or war?

WŁADYSŁAW KOSINIAK-KAMYSZ: The Minister of Defense must be prepared for any situation. Until the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, most of us thought that we lived in times of peace and viewed the Ministry of Defense indifferently. After February 24, 2022, everything changed, but in recent months we have been observing Poland and Europe getting used to the war. The first months of aggression were full of emotions. We were overwhelmed by the tragedy of the victims, and help for refugees, and then we got used to the war. So right now, the common challenge is not to be lulled into sleep.

NP: Do you go to bed thinking that it's up to you to decide how Poland will defend itself in case of Russian aggression?

WK: Every day when I wake up, I check what is happening in Ukraine. And there is another large drone and missile raid. This is being repeated with such regularity that it's clear that Russia has made up for its losses. Every morning, the first glance at my phone makes me realize what a huge responsibility I carry.

NP: Why is it dangerous to get used to war?