The statements indicate a readiness to respond to heightened tensions with Belarus, including the possibility of restricting or closing border traffic. The deputy head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration, Maciej Wąsik, reiterated the goal of securing the release of Andrzej Poczobut, a Polish minority activist and journalist sentenced to eight years, calling the action by Belarusian authorities unimaginable and unacceptable. He emphasized that Poland would not ignore what is happening to the Polish minority and that action would be taken to safeguard rights and deter further provocations.
The response to Poczobut’s treatment
During a radio interview, Wąsik described the ongoing exchanges of diplomatic pressure between Poland and Belarus and addressed whether all border crossings could be shut. He admitted uncertainty about the feasibility but underscored a firm commitment: any mistreatment of the Polish minority would be met with a strong reaction. He warned that the sentencing by what he termed Belarusian tribunals and the destruction of Home Army graveyards would not pass without consequence.
Wąsik stressed that Poland would be prepared for various scenarios, including potential reductions in border traffic with Belarus. He made clear that the government expects Belarus to respect the rights of the Polish minority and to halt actions against memorials and cemeteries of Home Army soldiers.
Support for Polish businesses
Asked how Polish companies might be compensated if sanctions or border closures impact trade, the deputy minister recalled previous government steps that established relief programs for entrepreneurs harmed by political measures. The government stands ready to respond, pending how the Belarusian side behaves and what signals come from across the border. The priority remains Poczobut’s freedom and the protection of minority rights. This is a baseline condition for any further actions.
Mustache noted that the government is prepared to take additional measures as needed, while observing Belarusian conduct. The aim is to secure the Polish minority’s safety and the integrity of the Home Army memorial sites, alongside ensuring minimal disruption to essential commerce where possible.
Border crossings: Bobrowniki
On February 10, the border crossing at Bobrowniki, between Poland and Belarus in the Podlaskie region, was closed until further notice. The closure followed a decision by the interior minister, cited as necessary for national security. The move came in the wake of Belarusian court actions against Andrzej Poczobut and the broader context of heightened state security concerns.
Kukuryki-Kozłowicze
Subsequent measures at the Kukuryki-Kozłowicze crossing restricted freight routes. Since mid-February, vehicles from outside the European Union and the European Free Trade Association cannot pass freely through this corridor; only EU and EFTA-registered trucks may move, and Belarusian carriers must route through Lithuania and Latvia when traveling between Poland and Belarus. Freight traffic is now limited to EU and EFTA registrations, with other carriers facing new constraints.
Additionally, Poland closed its liaison officer and reduced consular presence in Grodno. Belarusian authorities are set to withdraw a Polish defense attaché from Poland, as part of broader diplomatic adjustments. The Terespol crossing continues to handle passenger traffic with no announced new restrictions, and railway crossings remain in operation.
The ministry provided updates on the situation and outlined the evolving border regime, while continuing to emphasize the central goal of protecting Polish citizens abroad and ensuring the safety of the Polish minority within Belarus.