Poland is enhancing border security with Belarus to address increasing hybrid threats, confirmed the Polish government on Friday. This new initiative includes constructing an additional mesh fence in the Podlaskie province. The fence will be positioned alongside existing road barriers, aiding the Border Guard in detaining migrants who attempt to breach the initial defenses.
Details of the New Border Security Measures
The additional fence will stand four meters high and feature barbed wire along its length. Materials for its construction are currently being transported to the border. Furthermore, thermal-imaging cameras will be installed on 10-meter poles to improve surveillance, as stated by Brigadier General Sławomir Klekotka, Commander of the Podlaskie Border Guard Unit.
Reopening of Border Crossings
Poland has also announced the reopening of two border crossings with Belarus, which were closed in September. This closure was a reaction to extensive military exercises conducted by Belarusian and Russian forces. Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized that the border has been fortified to minimize illegal crossings.
- The first crossing to reopen will be Bobrowniki–Bierestowica.
- This crossing will have restrictions for freight traffic, limited to vehicles from EU member states, EFTA countries, and Switzerland.
Passenger traffic at this crossing will also be limited, specifically for coaches. The second crossing, Kuźnica Białostocka–Bruzgi, will reopen solely for passenger traffic, excluding bus services.
Context and Future Implications
The decision to reopen these crossings aims to facilitate normal traffic flow. Tusk mentioned the importance of letting ordinary people access these crossings without political interference disrupting their lives. Earlier this month, he indicated a delay in reopening the crossings until at least mid-November, aligning with Lithuania’s stance amid heightened security concerns from Russia.
Poland has accused Belarus of orchestrating a migrant crisis by enticing asylum seekers and directing them toward the Polish border. This ongoing situation has significantly influenced Poland’s security policies and border management strategies.
