Poland needs offensive cyber capabilities to deter Russia, says expert

Piotr Borkowski, a former officer of the Internal Security Agency (ABW) and cybersecurity expert, has stated that Poland possesses the human capital and competence to conduct offensive operations in cyberspace against Russia. Speaking on the program ‘Didaskalia’, Borkowski emphasized that such capabilities are necessary for deterrence, ensuring that Russia understands an attack on Polish systems could result in a costly response.

Borkowski argued that as a frontline state situated near the conflict in Ukraine, Poland faces constant Russian diversion, influence operations, and pressure on infrastructure. He suggested that relying solely on defense is insufficient and that a sovereign state requires both a ‘shield and a sword’. To implement this, he called for clear legal frameworks and the establishment of a specialized civilian service to provide experts with the necessary tools to act effectively.