Poland constructs "Eastern Barrier" costing billions
Since 1945, the biggest effort to reinforce Poland's eastern border is underway. The country aims to fortify its position against potential threats from Russia and Belarus. The price tag for this endeavor? A couple of billion euros.
Poland is set on investing multiple billions into the "Eastern Shield" initiative. This project will fortify the country's eastern border, providing protection from potential aggressors. Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, speaking in Warsaw, described this effort as the most significant endeavor to bolster the eastern border and NATO alliance's flank since 1945.
He went on to detail the extensive measures planned, including fortifications, several types of barriers, and highly advanced air-defense systems at every scale and height. This 700-kilometer-long border is not just a Polish matter; it also forms part of the EU's external boundaries.
The program's estimated cost is roughly 2.3 billion euros. The work on sections of the border is slated for completion by 2028. The primary aim is to deter potential adversaries but also prepare for defending the frontier. The objectives of this plan align with enhancing protection against surprise attacks, curtailing enemy troop mobility, and improving the maneuverability of Polish forces. The soldiers and civilian populace alike will enjoy increased protection.
Poland shares borders with Ukraine (which has been a target of Russian aggression and enjoying Polish military support), the dictatorial-ruled Belarus (allied with Moscow), and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad in the northeast. The Ukraine conflict amplified Warsaw's concern about Russia launching an attack. In light of its support for Ukraine, Poland is viewed negatively by the Kremlin.
In essence, Poland will pour billions into a formidable defensive infrastructure to mitigate threats from Russia, Belarus, and potentially Ukraine on its eastern flank. Work is scheduled to be completed by 2028, and is designed to deter enemies, prepare for defense, boost protection, and improve the movement of Polish troops.
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In response to the ongoing tensions with neighboring countries, particularly Russia and Belarus, Poland has decided to strengthen its eastern border with the "Eastern Shield" project, seeking support from NATO. This move comes amidst concerns over potential aggression, such as the attack on Ukraine.
Given the strategic location of Poland's eastern border, which includes borders with Ukraine, Belarus, and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, this initiative is seen as a crucial step in deterring potential threats and ensuring the protection of its troops and civilians until 2028.
Source: www.ntv.de
