The spokesperson for the European Commission, Olof Gill, emphasized security concerns when discussing Poland’s decision to close its border with Belarus. He noted that while this closure impacts trade, the responsibility for the situation lies with Russia and Belarus.
On Thursday, the Commission was inquired about the effects of the Poland-Belarus border closure on international trade, particularly concerning exports from China to the EU.
Gill acknowledged the trade implications due to the closure of key trade routes and confirmed ongoing communication between the European Commission and Polish authorities regarding this issue.
He reiterated that Poland’s decision is fundamentally tied to security issues, stating that any trade-related challenges stem from Russia’s aggressive and unjustified war, along with Belarus’ complicity. He asserted that the resolution would involve ending the conflict.
Another spokesperson, Markus Lammert, shared that Poland officially informed the Commission about the total border closure on September 10. He reiterated the Commission’s readiness to support Warsaw and emphasized the need to view Poland’s actions in light of threats from Russia and Belarus.
Lammert expressed serious concern regarding the use of migrants as a weapon against Poland, emphasizing the necessity to protect Poland’s external borders, which are also EU borders, against any threats that undermine territorial integrity and national security.
As of midnight on September 12, all crossings between Poland and Belarus are closed until further notice, with traffic in both directions suspended. The head of the Ministry of Interior and Administration, Marcin Kierwiński, declared that border traffic will only resume once the safety of Polish citizens is assured.
This closure was previously announced by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who linked it to the ongoing Russian-Belarusian military exercises, Zapad-2025.
The suspension impacts traffic leaving Poland for Belarus and vice versa, affecting both road and freight train transport.
The Ministry of Interior and Administration clarified on Tuesday that the conclusion of the “Zapad 2025” exercises does not lead to the reopening of the border, which will remain closed until it is deemed secure.
Since 2021, Belarus has been escalating tensions at the Polish border by directing groups of illegal migrants from Asia and Africa, prompting Poland to enhance its border security measures and develop further protections under the “Shield East” project to address potential military threats. (09.18.2025)
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