Welcome back to the Ties That Bind.

This season, we are looking at NATO from a bit of a different vantage point, specifically that of the frontline states. How are frontline states investing in and planning for their defense? How are they thinking about their role and contributions in the Alliance and on the world stage? How have their historical experiences shaped how their governments and societies think about defense, countering disinformation, and changing economic realities? And how are they preparing for a potential conflict with Russia?

This week, we are looking at Poland, a country that has completely transformed its military and defense capacity over the last two decades. Periods of transition are not always painless, and we’ll hear what challenges Poland has faced and what opportunities lie ahead as it looks to become a leading voice within the alliance and on the world stage.

Featured Guests:

* Anna Fotyga, former Polish Foreign Minister, 2006-2007

* Tomasz Szatkowski, former Deputy Defense Minister, 2015-2019, and Ambassador to NATO, 2019-2024

* Jakub Romaniuk, Programme Director, Foundation Institute for Eastern Studies

The full interviews with all of our guests will be available soon.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tiesthatbind.substack.com