Poland to Reinstate 200-Meter Buffer Zone Along Belarus Border Amid Rising Tensions

Polish Minister of Interior Tomasz Siemoniak has announced that a regulation on a 200-meter buffer zone along the Belarus border will be ready by the end of the week. This decision comes amid escalating tensions on the border and aims to address security concerns while considering the interests of local residents.

Why this matters: The reinstatement of the buffer zone along the Belarus border has significant implications for regional safety and the ongoing migrant crisis in Europe. This move could lead to increased tensions between Poland and Belarus, and potentially impact the flow of migrants into the EU.

The buffer zone, set to be reinstated on June 4, will cover the Gainovsky and Bialystok regions. The regulation is a response to a recent attack on a Polish soldier, which left him critically injured. Prime Minister Donald Tusk had announced on May 29 that Poland would reintroduce the buffer zone starting next week.

The buffer zone aims to enhance border security along the Belarus-Poland border, particularly in light of recent aggressive actions by illegal migrants. These migrants have used slingshots, pepper spray, and pyrotechnics against Polish border guards and soldiers. The Polish government is prioritizing the safety of its citizens and the protection of its borders.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized the need for active measures to counteract the aggression. He stated, 'The Ministry of Defense decided to actively counteract acts of aggression by illegal migrants.'

The buffer zone will be reinstated in the Hajnowka and Bialystok counties, covering 27 settlements. The restrictions will be in place for 90 days and may be extended later. This move is part of broader efforts to enhance border security and address the escalating hybrid attacks on Poland.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk, along with Siemoniak and Kosiniak-Kamysz, recently met with soldiers and officers serving on the Polish-Belarusian border in Dubicze Cerkiewne. Tusk reaffirmed his support for the officers and soldiers, assuring them of comprehensive support and increased safety measures. 'We are here today to make it very clear and to say once again that in any case, especially in circumstances such as an attack on our soldier, the Polish state and all of us are with you and on your side with no exceptions,' said Tusk.

The Polish government has also announced the establishment of the National Deterrence and Defence Programme, codenamed the East Shield. This program will cover a 700-kilometer stretch of the eastern and north-eastern border, including 400 kilometers of the border with Belarus. It aims to bolster NATO's eastern flank and enhance safety in the region.

The Polish government continues to prioritize the safety of its citizens and the protection of its border with the buffer zone reinstated. The situation on the Polish-Belarusian border remains tense, with ongoing aggressive actions by illegal migrants. The government’s efforts to enhance border security reflect its commitment to addressing these challenges and ensuring the safety of its people.

Key Takeaways

• Poland to reinstate 200-meter buffer zone along Belarus border by June 4.
• Buffer zone aims to enhance border security and address migrant crisis.
• Zone will cover 27 settlements in Hajnowka and Bialystok counties for 90 days.
• Polish government prioritizes citizen safety and border protection.
• New National Deterrence and Defence Programme to bolster NATO's eastern flank.