Poland sends troops to western frontier to control illegal migrant
(MENAFN) Poland has sent 700 troops to its western frontier and is ready to deploy up to 5,000 additional personnel to curb illegal migration from Germany and Lithuania, officials confirmed.
“We are strengthening security – decisively responding to migration threats,” stated Poland’s Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz on social media, highlighting the military’s involvement in the operation. Last week, the government reinstated border checks, which are expected to remain in place until at least August 5.
Poland has accused Germany— which introduced similar border controls in late 2023— of returning asylum seekers across their shared boundary. In response, local Polish groups have organized “citizen patrols” aimed at preventing migrants from moving eastward, increasing pressure on authorities to act.
With 65 checkpoints now operational, some running 24/7, the government says the mission is demanding and requires additional forces as part of “Operation Secure West.”
Reports indicate that the deployment includes 500 soldiers from the Territorial Defense Forces and 200 military police officers supporting around 800 Border Guard members. Additionally, 300 civilian police officers have been assigned to assist.
On Monday morning, authorities apprehended an Estonian national accused of smuggling four individuals attempting entry from Lithuania.
Migration remains a highly contentious issue in Germany, where the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has gained traction by criticizing government policies. Poland and other Eastern European countries accuse Germany of using its influence in the European Union to push pro-migrant policies in Brussels.
Poland, Germany, and Lithuania are all part of the Schengen Area—a zone allowing free movement across borders—which has faced challenges since migration surged in 2015. Under Schengen regulations, temporary border controls can be reinstated during emergencies.
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