Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk inspected military fortifications along the country's eastern border with Russia's Kaliningrad region on Saturday, describing the initiative as "an investment in peace." The visit comes ahead of Poland assuming the rotating presidency of the European Union, with a focus on strengthening European defenses amid heightened concerns over Russian aggression. The fortification project, dubbed East Shield, aims to secure approximately 800 kilometers (500 miles) of Poland's borders with Russia and Belarus. Western officials have accused Russia of employing hybrid warfare tactics, including disinformation, migration weaponization, and sabotage. Poland's efforts align with its growing role as a leading voice for European security, particularly as internal political challenges weaken France and Germany. Standing before anti-tank barriers near the village of Dabrowka, Tusk stated, "The better the Polish border is guarded, the more difficult it is to access for those with bad intentions." He emphasized that the project aims to deter potential aggressors, fostering stability in the region. The Polish government has allocated at least 10 billion zlotys ($2.5 billion) for the strategic military initiative. The East Shield project includes advanced surveillance systems, logistics hubs, anti-drone measures, and natural barriers such as ditches integrated with physical defenses like "hedgehog" anti-tank obstacles. It is reportedly the largest project of its kind in Europe since World War II. Poland also plans to expand these fortifications along its borders with Belarus and Ukraine. Despite Ukraine being a close ally, Tusk noted that all eastern borders require comprehensive security measures to ensure national and regional stability. Poland, which plans to allocate 4.7% of its GDP to defense in 2025, is among NATO's top contributors to defense spending. The government views these investments as critical not just for national security but also for demonstrating Poland's commitment to European and NATO allies. Tusk highlighted plans to extend East Shield's protective measures to support the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. He expressed confidence that the initiative would garner European support as a model for collective defense. Tusk's visit also underscored the urgency of bolstering Europe's defenses amid uncertainties surrounding global alliances. Polish officials have expressed concerns about the incoming administration of Donald Trump, fearing a potential shift in U.S. commitment to European defense. "The whole of Europe is observing these investments and our actions with great satisfaction and will support them if necessary," Tusk stated. He reiterated Poland's resolve to protect its citizens and strengthen its role as a security pillar for both the European Union and NATO. — Agencies
