Poland Launches 'Operation Safe Podlasie' with 17,000 Troops to Secure Eastern Border Amid Rising Hybrid Threats

Poland has announced the launch of "Operation Safe Podlasie," beginning August 1st, deploying up to 17,000 soldiers along the Polish border, as unveiled during a joint press conference at the Ministry of National Defense headquarters today to bolster border security.

“There is a hybrid war going on, the biggest since the concept was created. (…) There has never been such an attack on Poland. It manifests itself in attempts to cross the border, in sabotage, sabotage and in cyberspace. This is the experience of recent weeks and months, which has caused the need for even greater coordination of actions for border security. Recent months have seen additional equipment, but also armoured vehicles, transport vehicles, used for transport, medical vehicles, which ensure the safety of soldiers and officers. Sending new units of operational troops, but also soldiers of the Special Forces or the Military Police to patrol the border is bringing its effects,” the minister said on July 17.

Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz outlined the mission's objectives, emphasizing its dual focus on training exercises and enhanced border protection. "The hybrid warfare tactics employed against Poland necessitate unprecedented vigilance," stated Kosiniak-Kamysz, underscoring the gravity of recent threats including attempted border breaches, sabotage, and cyber intrusions.

Key adjustments in operational strategy include the transfer of responsibility to the 18th Mechanised Division for border operations, ensuring a coordinated and robust defense posture. "We are responding decisively to the evolving security landscape," affirmed Kosiniak-Kamysz.

Since 2021, Polish Armed Forces have collaborated with the Border Guard amid escalating hybrid threats from Belarus. The Military Task Group (WZZ) Podlasie has been pivotal, thwarting illegal border crossings while fortifying readiness through continuous training.

Deputy Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz also addressed critical improvements in medical infrastructure, citing recent allocations for medical facilities and enhanced support from military and emergency services.

Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration Tomasz Siemoniak echoed the urgency, highlighting a 50% reduction in illegal border crossings since the establishment of buffer zones. "Our focus remains resolute on combating both hybrid aggression and criminal activities," Siemoniak affirmed, stressing the government's unwavering commitment to border security.

Furthermore, Kosiniak-Kamysz underscored Poland's efforts to internationalize security measures, particularly along NATO's eastern flank. "Recent NATO summits have solidified international support for our border defenses," he declared, emphasizing collective allied responsibility in safeguarding Poland's sovereignty.

The launch of "Operation Safe Podlasie" aligns with Poland's broader strategic initiative, the "National Deterrence and Defense Program - Shield East," aimed at fortifying defense infrastructure across NATO's eastern frontier. The inter-ministerial effort involves collaboration from multiple governmental sectors to bolster Poland's resilience against regional threats.

As preparations intensify ahead of August 1st, Polish authorities are steadfast in their commitment to securing the nation's borders and defending against evolving security challenges.