ABSTRACT

Polish security after 1989 was closely connected to political changes within the country, its new relationship with the Western world, and the geopolitical reorganization of its region, which led to a swath of newly independent countries – and new relationships – that emerged along Poland's eastern borders. One of the most important changes since 1989 has been Polish-Russian relations. Russia has finally admitted—albeit under Polish diplomatic pressure – that the Soviet Union committed crimes against Poland, especially during World War II. Ukraine and the Baltic states, especially Lithuania, impact Polish security not only because they share a border with Poland, but also because they affect Polish-Russian relations. Equally important to the security of Poland – and to Europe as a whole – has been the reunification of Germany. The establishment of a very powerful country in the middle of the continent has been a challenge for many in Europe.