Poland has indeed been facing a significant issue at its border with Ukraine.

Poland has indeed been facing a significant issue at its border with Ukraine. As of November 20, approximately 2,900 freight vehicles are stuck in queues at three major border crossings due to the blocking of checkpoints1. The striking Polish drivers are protesting an EU deal that allows Ukrainian trucks unlimited access to the bloc. The three largest border crossing points affected by this strike are Korczowa-Krakowiec, Hrebenne-Rava-Ruska, and Dorohusk-Yahodyn2.

Moreover, another checkpoint, specifically the Shehyni checkpoint, has been blocked by Polish strikers on the Poland-Ukraine border34. This situation is causing significant disruptions to freight transport, impacting not only Ukraine and Poland but also other countries that rely on the movement of goods across these borders.

The conflict arises from the liberalization of international transportation between Ukraine and EU countries. Ukrainian truck drivers have been exempt from seeking permits to cross the Polish border since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. However, Polish drivers claim that Russian and Belarusian entities have been setting up Polish outfits, creating an uneven playing field. The strikes also stem from a dispute earlier this year over cheap Ukrainian grain, which normally flowed into Europe through Poland but led to tensions between the neighboring countries2.

Despite the challenges, Poland’s support has been crucial to Ukraine during its war effort. However, fatigue and waning sympathy are evident in Poland, especially during the recent election campaign, where right-wing parties capitalized on anti-Ukrainian sentiment. The International Transport Association of Ukraine has demanded the cancellation of visa-free transport, but this request is deemed impossible due to bilateral agreements between the EU and Ukraine2.

The situation remains complex, affecting trade, regional relations, and the livelihoods of truck drivers on both sides of the border.