Poland Invests $2.5 Billion to Strengthen Borders with Russia and Belarus

Poland is investing $2.5 billion in the Shield-East project to fortify its borders with Russia and Belarus. This initiative aims to enhance national security and ensure an impenetrable eastern frontier.

Poland is investing around $2.5 billion to enhance security and deterrence along its borders with Russia and Belarus, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced on Saturday. The investment is part of the Shield-East project, which aims to build substantial military fortifications.

As a NATO and European Union member on the eastern flank, Poland has a significant role in ensuring Europe's security. "We have taken the decision to invest into our safety and first of all, into a safe eastern border, some 10 billion zlotys ($2.5 billion)," Tusk stated.

The Shield-East project involves constructing a fortified border system that includes terrain modifications and environmental measures to prevent any potential enemy infiltration. Tusk emphasized, "We are opening a great project of the construction of a safe border, including a system of fortifications and of the shaping of terrain, (of) environmental decisions that will make this border impenetrable by a potential enemy."

Speaking to Polish troops in Krakow during a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the allied victory at the Battle of Monte Cassino in World War II, Tusk highlighted the importance of the project. "We have begun these works, to make Poland's border a safe one in times of peace, and impenetrable for an enemy in times of war," he added.

Previously, Poland's right-wing government built a $400 million wall on the border with Belarus to stop a significant influx of migrants that started in 2021. However, the current pro-EU government believes that the border security needs further strengthening.

Poland remains a strong ally of Ukraine in its defense against Russia's invasion, reflecting its commitment to regional security and stability.