Russia: Poland’s planned reinforcement of border troops worrisome
The Russian leadership sees Poland’s decision to strengthen its security forces along the border with Belarus as “cause for concern”. Presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov tells the press that Poland is an “aggressive” country and requires “closer attention”.
Poland announced on July 2 that 500 police officers would be deployed to increase security at the border with Belarus. The government in Warsaw cited the increasing number of migrants and possible threats due to the transfer of Wagner mercenaries to Belarus as the reason.
The Polish Ministry of Defense also announced on Thursday that the situation on the border with Belarus was being closely monitored. The ministry said it was prepared after Belarus announced that Russian Wagner mercenaries were taking part in military exercises near the border. “Poland’s borders are secure, we are continuously monitoring the situation on our eastern border and are prepared for various scenarios if the situation develops.” Belarus shares borders with Russia and Ukraine as well as NATO and EU members Poland, Latvia and Lithuania.