West's passage through Poland's border remains closed following their actions.
The Polish-Belarusian border has been indefinitely closed since August 2023, causing significant challenges for Polish carriers and entrepreneurs. This closure, which was approved by the Polish government and border security agencies, is primarily due to security concerns linked to the Russia-Belarus military exercises 'Zapad-2025'.
The Polish authorities are aware of the difficulties the border closure presents for carriers, but have not yet provided a definitive timeframe for reopening. The Polish government, however, aims to make the period of border traffic suspension as short as possible, considering economic issues and Polish entrepreneurs.
The Polish government prioritises the safety of its citizens and has emphasised that the border will only reopen when it is completely safe, as confirmed by the relevant services. The suspension of border traffic is a significant challenge for Polish carriers, leading to financial losses. Carriers must now use Lithuanian border crossings for their transports due to the closed Polish-Belarus border.
The border closure is not solely for the duration of these drills. Other factors, such as anti-Polish sentiment being taught in Belarusian schools and the sentencing of a Russian political prisoner to three years in a colony, have also contributed to the decision.
It is important to note that the Polish Ministry has stated that losses due to the border closure will be assessed once the duration is known. The Polish government continues to prioritise the safety of its citizens and will only reopen the border when it is completely safe.
In other news, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has denied any involvement in the drone information regarding the Russian military exercises 'Zapad-2025'. This denial comes amidst increasing tensions between Russia and its neighbouring countries.
In Belarus, President Alexander Lukashenko has ordered anti-Polish sentiment to be taught in Belarusian schools. This move has further strained relations between the two countries and has been met with criticism from the international community.
As the situation continues to develop, it is clear that the Polish-Belarusian border closure is a complex issue with far-reaching implications for both countries. The Polish government's commitment to the safety of its citizens remains unwavering, and they will continue to work towards resolving this challenge as quickly and safely as possible.