Poland, Ukraine: Polish truck drivers extend protest blocking entry of Ukrainian trucks at border until Jan. 3 /update 1

Polish truck drivers have extended and intensified protests blocking Ukrainian trucks from using several border crossings on the shared border as of Nov. 29; organizers state the protest will continue until Jan. 3. Polish truck drivers have extended the roadblock protests to the Medyka-Shehyni crossing, bringing the total number of blockaded border crossings to four. The Korczowa-Krakowiec, Hrebenne-Rava-Ruska, and Dorohusk-Yahodyn crossings have been blockaded since the protest began on Nov. 6. Additionally, protesters will now man the roadblocks 24 hours a day, allowing only two trucks per hour to enter Poland from Ukraine at each affected crossing. Light vehicles and humanitarian and military shipments are not being impeded. Polish truck drivers are demanding authorities re-impose quotas on Ukrainian freight transport that were lifted at the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Authorities have been unable to negotiate a reopening of the border; the protest may be extended to the four remaining border crossings between Poland and Ukraine with little warning.

Reports indicate that freight traffic seeking alternative routes is prompting lengthy queues and delays at border crossing points into Hungary and Slovakia. Counterdemonstrations by Ukrainian truck drivers are possible in shared border areas, intensifying disruptions. The road blockades have also been supported by Polish farmers who may stage additional solidarity demonstrations.

Increased security is likely near the protest locations. The blockages will likely result in transport disruptions on nearby roads and increase congestion on alternative routes. Alternative means of transport and border crossings will likely experience increased demand and traffic. Temporary goods shortages are possible. While the action has remained peaceful, localized scuffles are possible.