21 Feb 2023 | 01:47 PM UTC
Poland: Increased security and movement disruptions reported in Warsaw amid US Presidential visit Feb. 21-22
Increased security and movement disruptions reported in Warsaw, Poland, due to US Presidential visit Feb. 21-22. Major disruptions likely.
Event
Increased security and movement restrictions are ongoing in Warsaw due to US President Joe Biden's visit from Feb. 21 through at least the afternoon of Feb. 22; the exact timing of Biden's departure has not been released, likely for security reasons.
Security measures in Warsaw include extensive road closures and checkpoints and a visibly increased police presence in central and sensitive areas. The road from Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) to the city center, Zwirky i Wigury, will be closed ahead of Biden's departure, though the exact timings are unknown. Major road closures and detours will heavily impact the city center Feb. 21-22, with Jerozolimskie Avenue, Krakowskie Przedmiescie, Nowy Przejazd, Solidarnosci Avenue, Wybrzeze Gdanskie, and Ujazdowskie Avenue likely subject to closure along with numerous adjoining streets.
Spontaneous but likely small anti-US protests are possible in Warsaw during Biden's visit, particularly in central areas of the city. However, as yet, no such protests have been reported.
Advice
Plan for significant disruptions in central Warsaw, as well as between Warsaw and WAW, Feb. 21-22. Prepare for movement restrictions, telecommunications disruptions, and other heightened security measures. Avoid any protests that occur as a standard precaution. Heed the instructions of local authorities.
