The Minister of the Interior and Administration pointed out that these exercises are directly aimed at Poland and the European Union.

During these exercises, the Russian and Belarusian armies practise scenarios of aggression against our country. We will reopen the border when we are certain that the safety of the Polish people is guaranteed and that Poland is not threatened by any provocations. We will keep a close eye on the situation. This decision was taken in connection with the exercises, and will remain in effect for longer than the planned event

- said Marcin Kierwiński.

The government considers compensation for losses

The government is aware that shutting down cross-border traffic may be inconvenient for businesses, but the key rationale for the decision is the imperative to ensure the safety of Poles. 

Due to economic issues, we will do everything in our power to reopen the borders as soon as possible. All ministries were tasked with preparing a summary of potential losses, which will be the basis for any decisions concerning possible support for specific industries in connection with this shutdown. We will take care of this in the future  

- the Minister of the Interior and Administration pointed out. 

He also pointed out that in the last hours before the shutdown, traffic at the Polish-Belarusian crossings was calm, and there were no displays of ill will.

Marcin Kierwiński thanked the officers of the Border Guard, the Police, and the Customs Service for carrying out the process seamlessly.

Border crossings closed

The suspension of border traffic concerns all traffic coming in and out of Poland, including road transport and trains. 

Passenger cars may not cross the border at the Terespol-Brest road crossing, while lorry drivers are unable to cross the border at the Kukuryki-Kozlovichi road crossing. Three railway border crossings for freight traffic will also be shut down. These include: Kuźnica Białostocka-Grodno, Siemianówka-Svislač, and Terespol-Brest.