The border between Poland and Belarus is secured with a high level of vigilance. Officials anticipate further provocations, but the Polish army stands ready to respond to a range of scenarios and to counter any threat, according to the Polish Minister of National Defense.
The transfer of Wagner forces into Belarus is viewed as a significant security challenge, particularly in light of Belarusian-Russian hybrid tactics observed along the border. This assessment was made public by the minister, who noted that the issue was a major topic at the NATO summit in Vilnius.
A clear stance was articulated: NATO and its allies are prepared to respond immediately to any form of aggression. The minister emphasized that every part of Polish and allied territory would be defended with unwavering resolve. When asked about the likelihood of further Belarusian provocations, he indicated there was no doubt such actions would continue and intensify. The ministry keeps the situation under constant watch and is taking all possible steps to strengthen national security.
Moving military units toward the east, bolstering the defense line, and increasing troop numbers are measures designed to protect citizens. The defense leadership stressed that the armed forces are prepared for many different scenarios and will respond appropriately to threats. The need for careful monitoring and deterrence is a priority.
While valuing allied support, the minister underscored that the primary responsibility lies with the Polish armed forces. The military, along with other services, monitors the border around the clock. The minister also announced the decision to deploy additional troops to safeguard the border, including helicopter gunships.
The operation named Safe Podlasie is advancing as an additional measure. In total, about 10,000 personnel will be present along the border and in adjacent areas. Four thousand of them will directly support the Border Guard, while the remainder will train and stay in reserve. This display of presence signals a firm commitment and steadfastness.
Questions about the Suwałki Gap and the Brześć Gate prompted explanations that these critical points are being fortified and expanded. New equipment will be prioritized for these locations. The plan also involves strengthening the eastern part of the country by expanding military infrastructure and relocating some forces from the west to the east. Reinforcement occurs both in the tactical sense with more soldiers and new equipment, and in a strategic sense through the formation of new units at multiple levels.
The minister highlighted engagements involving battalions such as a sapper battalion in Augustów, and large units like the 1st Legions Infantry Division and the 2nd Polish Corps. The Territorial Defense Forces are active in eastern Poland as well. On the eastern flank, the first territorial forces units were established and remain of high interest.
When asked about the progress of forming the 1st Legions Infantry Division, which will be primarily stationed in the region, the minister stated that everything is proceeding as planned. Creating the 1st Division was viewed as a response to regional political and military needs. The decision to establish the 18th Mechanized Division was likewise affirmed as prudent given the eastern threat.
Expansion of the Polish Army in the East is underway. The 1st Division is being built on a model borrowed from the 18th Division, which drew on strong American practices. The new division’s units are already moving to locations such as Białystok, Kolno, Siemiatycze, and Ostrołęka, among others. The army’s growth in the east includes new formations as well as returns to areas previously vacated under earlier decisions.
At Vilnius, NATO reaffirmed its readiness to defend every piece of alliance territory. The presence of several thousand American soldiers in Poland remains a key element of security, reflecting solid cooperation with Washington. A notable outcome is the establishment of a forward command post for the US Army V Corps on Polish soil. This gesture of transatlantic support is viewed as reinforcing Poland’s defensive capabilities and deterring potential aggression.
The minister concluded with confidence in Poland’s defense readiness and the resolve to withstand any pressure, provided the alliance stands united and ready to act.
This overview reflects official statements reported by the press agency and the national defense ministry, summarizing ongoing security measures and strategic developments along the eastern border.