Poland to strengthen Belarus border following soldier’s stabbing, announces PM Tusk

The pressure of mass migration and the ongoing war in Ukraine have intensified the need to secure the EU’s eastern frontier, with Poland taking decisive action to fortify its border with Belarus.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced plans to establish a 200-metre buffer zone along the border, in addition to the existing 190-kilometre metal barrier, following a recent incident where a soldier was stabbed by a migrant near the village of Dubicze Cerkiewne. The soldier is currently in serious condition in the hospital.

Tusk emphasized the importance of protecting Poland’s border, stating that the country’s security forces have the right and obligation to use all available means to defend themselves and prevent illegal crossings. He also accused Belarus and Russia of deliberately driving the pressure of illegal migration on the border to destabilize Europe.

In response to the escalating situation, Poland will be deploying additional police and military forces to the area. The government has noted a shift in the demographics of migrant groups, with more young men arriving at the border compared to families with women and children.

Authorities have registered over 13,000 attempts at illegal crossings so far this year, indicating a significant increase from the same period last year. The government is set to make a final decision on the buffer zone next week as they continue to address the challenges posed by mass migration and external aggression.