Finland made a decisive move by sealing its entire border with Russia, citing mounting migratory pressure from Moscow. The head of Poland’s Ministry of National Defense, Mariusz Błaszczak, stressed that this step reflects a broader trend. He added that Polish politicians from PO and Poland 2050 appear to echo Putin’s ambitions within Poland.
Finland, Polish politics, and Putin’s influence
The Finnish government announced on Tuesday its plan to close all border crossings with Russia. The closure, including the northernmost crossing into Lapland near Murmansk, located roughly 250 kilometers from the landscape boundary, will take effect overnight and remain in place for two weeks.
The decision has been praised as prudent, with the view that migration pressure from Russia will intensify in coming days.
– commented Mariusz Błaszczak on X (formerly Twitter).
Meanwhile, in Poland, leaders from the ruling party and allied groups have been accused of pursuing policies that align with Putin’s preferences. Donald Tusk recently criticized the government for risking important ties with Russia, while Szymon Hołownia proposed a framework intended to manage irregular migration more effectively.
– stated the Minister of National Defense.
READ ALSO: After Tusk’s remarks, some see little change. The reset policy with Russia appears to persist
READ ALSO: Poland dispatches specialists to Finland. The National Security Bureau chief noted their involvement in border protection and the exchange of expertise
Tusk on relations with Russia
He referred to Tuesday’s remarks by the PO leader regarding protests by airlines near the border with Ukraine.
“Poland should maintain cooperative ties with Ukraine while safeguarding its own interests. Those who govern must avoid exploiting tensions and ignore border issues no longer,” said Donald Tusk.
“This is a matter of public concern because even a drivers’ protest can threaten our core interests and relationships with Ukraine, Russia, and Europe.”
– asserted the head of PO.
CHECK THE DETAILS: He argued that the government is under attack for weakening strategic relations with Russia. A video capture of the moment is available as reference.
Hołownia on migration policy
Błaszczak’s statement also reflects remarks made by Sejm President Szymon Hołownia during a Friday briefing in Białystok. Hołownia suggested that a robust border-protection system is essential for Poland, noting that the border must remain tight and secure. He pointed to groups such as mothers with children, seriously ill individuals, the elderly from countries with real persecution, and economic migrants from areas without armed conflict as those who cross the border in challenging circumstances.
He stressed that the Polish state must differentiate between these situations.
“Pragmatism does not exclude humanity. Safety does not preclude compassion.”
“This is a conversation we have had for three years as we worked toward the Sejm, and we still stand in the same position. Pushbacks must end because they are illegal and inhumane.”
– Hołownia added. He also called for a migration policy built as a system that can adapt to real conditions.
“First, at the level of an emergency service on the eastern border, and then in a system that shows how many economic migrants can be admitted this year, how many humanitarian visas can be issued, and how the border will stay secure.”
– Hołownia said.
READ ALSO: Hołownia discusses border policy. Błaszczak counters that the marshal may not fully grasp the situation. The idea of a future peace remains a talking point.
Source: wPolityce