The Military to Launch "The Largest Operation in Polish History." General Kukuła Reveals Details of Operation "Phoenix"

On Monday, the military will begin an operation codenamed "Phoenix", aimed at supporting the rebuilding efforts in areas affected by the flood. "This will likely be the largest operation in Poland's history" - said the Chief of the Polish Armed Forces General Staff, General Wiesław Kukuła. What exactly is the mission?
Wojsko pomaga powodzianom, Oława, 18.09.2024 r.
Fot. Patryk Ogorzałek / Agencja Wyborcza.pl

What It's About:

General Kukuła stated on TVN24 that the military operation "Phoenix" would commence on September 23.

It will probably be the largest operation in Poland's history, in which the military will be involved in supporting the rebuilding processes in the areas affected by the flood

- he announced.

Wojsko pomaga ochronić się przed falą powodziową, Nysa, 18.09.2024 r.
Wojsko pomaga ochronić się przed falą powodziową, Nysa, 18.09.2024 r.Fot. Łukasz Cynalewski / Agencja Wyborcza.pl

Operation "Phoenix":

General Kukuła explained that the operation would have "five lines of effort".

"The first line is security" - he said, explaining that this would involve continued monitoring of flood barriers.

The second line is health: "We will set up advanced medical and doctor aid points, especially in smaller towns that lack access to healthcare. We'll also have helicopters ready for medical evacuations if needed, support vaccination efforts, and provide psychological assistance".

The third line is mobility, which will ensure the restoration of infrastructure, electricity, and water. The fourth line is logistics, focusing on the supply of drinking water and food. "The final line is training. We must definitely enhance the skills of local administration and municipal authorities in crisis management. We'll start this after addressing the immediate consequences of the flood" - Kukuła added.

Military Support:

More than 16,000 soldiers will assist flood victims starting from September 19, according to the Ministry of National Defense. On Wednesday, 14,000 military personnel were involved in aid efforts. Soldiers are reinforcing flood barriers, stacking sandbags in threatened areas, conducting evacuations, and delivering food to affected residents.