Poland: Frontline of the EU's 'Hybrid War' with Russia

Weaponizing Migration

On the Polish-Belarusian border, a fierce battle is underway—one that's dubbed as the "hybrid war" between the European Union and Russia.

Russia and Belarus have used migration as a weapon, transporting thousands of migrants to the EU's borders, fueling support for anti-immigration parties.

Surge in Asylum Seekers

Migrants from Syria, Eritrea, and other conflict zones are lured to Russia and Belarus with promises of a better life in Europe. These asylum seekers are then transported to the borders of Poland, Lithuania, and other EU states, with tools and gear to help them cross.

Poland's Response

Poland has taken a hardline stance, pushing asylum seekers back across the border. Critics argue this violates international law, but Polish officials claim they are simply responding to the weaponization of migration by Russia.

Fortified Border

Poland's border with Belarus has been heavily fortified with a tall steel fence, razor wire, and a network of sensors and cameras. The Polish army patrols the area, while an "electronic trip wire" alerts guards to any crossings.

"Floodgates" Operation

The surge in migrants crossing from Belarus began in 2021, after Belarus launched Operation "Floodgates." Thousands of African and Asian migrants were brought to the border, putting pressure on Poland and its neighbors.

Asylum Rights under Scrutiny

While many asylum seekers attempt to cross into Poland, only a small fraction have actually filed for international protection. Polish authorities claim that most migrants do not want to register, but rather want to travel to western Europe.

Tusk's Tough Stance

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has proposed a new law to suspend the rights of asylum seekers from Belarus. This has drawn criticism from international organizations, including the European Commission, who argue that it violates EU law prohibiting the return of asylum seekers to unsafe areas.

PiS Legacy

Tusk's government has faced challenges in reversing the policies of the previous populist government led by the Law and Justice party (PiS). PiS's legacy includes judicial reforms and the erosion of democratic values.

Polish Defense Build-Up

Amid heightened tensions in the region, Poland has significantly increased its defense spending. The country is preparing for a potential ground invasion by Russian forces, building up defenses and stockpiling landmines along its eastern border.

Lessons from Ukraine

"We learned from the war in Ukraine," says Polish Armed Forces deputy chief of staff Stanislaw Czosnek. Polish military planners believe that if Ukraine had been as prepared to resist a full-scale Russian invasion, the outcome might have been different.