Poland to Reopen Two Key Border Crossings with Belarus on November 17

Poland Reopens Border Crossings Amidst Security Measures

Poland has announced the reopening of two significant border crossings with Belarus, Bobrowniki-Bierestowica and Kuźnica Białostocka-Bruzgi, effective November 17. The decision, signed by Poland's Minister of the Interior and Administration, Marcin Kierwiński, aims to address the 'long-standing expectations' of local residents and businesses, particularly transport companies, while maintaining robust security protocols.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk had previously indicated in October that the reopening would proceed 'on a trial basis' and in consultation with Lithuania. The Polish government emphasizes that the benefits for Polish citizens and enterprises now outweigh the risks, attributing this to enhanced border protection measures.

Details of the Reopening

The two crossings will operate with specific restrictions:

• The Bobrowniki-Bierestowica crossing will be accessible for both freight and passenger traffic. Freight vehicles will be limited to those registered in European Union (EU), European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, and Switzerland. Passenger traffic, including buses, will also be permitted.
• The Kuźnica Białostocka-Bruzgi crossing will reopen exclusively for passenger traffic, with the exception of buses.

The Ministry of Interior and Administration stated that the functioning of both crossings will be under close surveillance, and the government reserves the right to re-close them if any security threats emerge.

Context of Previous Closures

The border crossings were previously closed due to a series of security concerns and political tensions. The Kuźnica crossing, for instance, had been closed since November 2021 following an incident involving migrants. The Bobrowniki crossing was shut down in February 2023 after a Belarusian court sentenced Polish journalist Andrzej Poczobut.

More recently, in September, all crossings with Belarus were temporarily closed as a precautionary measure during the joint Russian-Belarusian military exercises 'Zapad-2025'. This period also saw 21 Russian drones reportedly entering Polish airspace, further escalating security concerns. Poland has consistently accused Belarus of orchestrating a migrant crisis as a 'hybrid war' tactic to destabilize the EU.

Enhanced Security and Future Monitoring

Despite the reopening, Poland is simultaneously bolstering its border security. Plans are underway to construct a second mesh fence along the frontier in Podlaskie province, equipped with thermal-imaging cameras and motion sensors, to further deter illegal crossings. Prime Minister Tusk emphasized that the decision to reopen is not linked to any political negotiations with Minsk, including potential prisoner exchanges, but is solely driven by the interests of the Polish population and businesses.

The Polish government remains vigilant, with officials stressing that the safety of its citizens and adherence to NATO commitments are paramount. The reopening is expected to benefit trade corridors and supply chains, particularly for regions reliant on cross-border commerce.