Tomasz Siemoniak

Poland has announced a significant military operation on its border with Belarus, scheduled to commence on 1 August. The operation, titled “Safe Podlaskie,” will involve up to 17,000 soldiers.

This development was disclosed by Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz during a joint press conference with Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak.

Key Details and Objectives

Kosiniak-Kamysz outlined that the decision to establish a buffer zone on the Belarusian border has had positive outcomes, reducing both the number of attempts to cross the border illegally and the actual crossings. The operation will be overseen by the 18th Mechanised Division, with police officers who have previously served in international missions, such as in Kosovo, being deployed to train the soldiers.

The Defence Minister stressed that individuals who harass Polish soldiers and officers protecting the border will face strict consequences. This statement underscores Poland’s commitment to maintaining order and security along its eastern frontier.

Impact on Illegal Border Crossings

Interior Minister Siemoniak reported a significant decrease in illegal border crossing attempts, attributing this success to the implementation of the buffer zone and the displacement of smugglers from the immediate border area.

“We have seen a 50% reduction in illegal crossing attempts since the buffer zone was established,” Siemoniak stated.

He highlighted that the operation’s success is evident in the tangible results achieved.

Siemoniak also mentioned the ongoing efforts to raise awareness among citizens of countries from which illegal migrants originate, informing them that crossing the Polish-Belarusian border constitutes a criminal act. These measures are part of a broader strategy to deter illegal migration and enhance border security.

International Cooperation and Infrastructure Enhancements

Poland has recently expressed its intention to collaborate with border guards and police officers from Finland, Germany, and Greece to bolster patrols along the Belarusian border. This international cooperation aims to strengthen the operational capabilities of Polish forces and ensure a more robust border defence.

In addition, the Polish government has undertaken several infrastructure projects to enhance border security. Recently, the Border Guard signed two significant contracts: one for electronic security measures and another for reinforcing physical barriers that have been easily breached in the past.

Response to Hybrid Threats and Criminal Activity

Siemoniak pointed out that the situation at the border is not only about illegal migration but also involves hybrid aggression from Belarusian and Russian services, as well as general criminal activities.

Since 4 June, police prevention units have been assisting at the border, training approximately 12,000 soldiers within a month.

Poland is also pressuring Belarus to cooperate in the investigation of the murder of a Polish soldier, who was fatally stabbed at the border. The Interior Minister assured that the authorities would not rest until the perpetrator is apprehended and brought to justice.

Crackdown on Smuggling Networks

Deputy Interior Minister Czeslaw Mroczek announced the creation of special Border Guard units modelled after police prevention units. These units are specially trained to handle attempts at illegal border crossings and confront aggressive crowds wielding dangerous tools.

Mroczek reported that nearly 400 smugglers have been arrested this year, following the detention of 600 individuals involved in smuggling operations last year. These efforts are part of a comprehensive strategy to dismantle illegal migration networks operating from Belarus into Poland.

Conclusion

The launch of Operation “Safe Podlaskie” represents a major escalation in Poland’s efforts to secure its border with Belarus. The deployment of a substantial military force, combined with enhanced infrastructure and international cooperation, reflects the seriousness with which Poland views the current border security challenges.

The positive impact of the buffer zone and the significant reduction in illegal crossing attempts demonstrate the effectiveness of Poland’s approach. As the situation evolves, the continued focus on border security and international collaboration will be crucial in maintaining stability and security in the region.