Polish military forces have demonstrated progress in constructing fortifications along the border with Russia as part of the large-scale defense program “Eastern Shield
" In south-western Poland – in the village of Rutka, located in the gmina of Barciany, Kętrzyn County – a demonstration of a section of engineering structures took place. These are designed to provide additional protection for the country against potential external threats. This event highlights Warsaw’s active defense policy and its efforts to strengthen security in a region that has faced significant challenges from its neighbor, Russia, in recent years. During the presentation, Lieutenant General Stanisław Czocznek, Deputy Chief of the Polish Army General Staff, emphasized that Poland, proud and self-sufficient, is not preparing for war passively. According to him, the regional situation has worsened significantly, and the country is acting proactively by implementing preventive measures to enhance its defense capabilities. "We have already begun the construction of engineering fortifications along our border with Russia in Rutka, and this process is ongoing. At the same time, similar measures are being taken along the border with Belarus and in areas close to Ukraine," he added. The fencing shown at the event is only one component of a multifaceted defense system, which is part of the "Eastern Shield" program. This program involves not only building engineering structures but also encompasses a range of measures: reconnaissance and threat prevention, chemical defense systems, logistics and military systems that ensure mobility and counter-mobility of troops. Czocznek highlighted that the program also includes the development of medical infrastructure adapted to the needs of the armed forces in the region. Importantly, Poland actively cooperates with government agencies, local authorities, and ministries such as Agriculture, Infrastructure, and Digitalization in this extensive project. Regarding land use, military representatives assured that during the construction of fortifications, private property of citizens is not affected. "We have been working on these territories for over a year, and we are not expropriating anyone. All works are conducted on state-owned land or facilities owned by local government bodies," confirmed the general. "Private property will never be disturbed during construction." The event was also attended by Brigadier General Marek Wawrzyniak, Commander of the Military Engineering Service. He stressed that any fencing object is only part of a system that must be properly protected. Therefore, alongside fortifications, firing positions, shelters for personnel and equipment are being built to allow effective responses to external threats. Wawrzyniak shared that when developing plans for engineering structures, specialists actively draw on experience gained during operations in Ukraine and other conflict zones to adapt the fortifications to local conditions. "The area around Rutka is an ideal example of how to position engineering barriers. The forested and marshy terrain creates additional constraints for the mobility of potential adversaries." Another important detail is the scale of measurements and work. According to Wawrzyniak, in the implementation of "Eastern Shield," parcels of land in over thirty settlements have already been purchased, construction and reconnaissance activities are underway. Monitoring has been conducted in more than seventy settlements and infrastructure facilities, allowing for a better assessment of overall needs and the creation of the most effective protection. Historically, it is worth recalling that at the end of last year, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk officially announced the start of the "Eastern Shield" fortification system along borders with Russia and Belarus. In June 2023, the Polish government approved a resolution and allocated at least 10 billion zlotys for this program for the period 2024–2028. This is one of the largest defense projects aimed at strengthening the security of Poland’s eastern borders, supplementing existing systems and creating a multi-layered shield. Additionally, Warsaw actively collaborates with the Baltic states – Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania – planning to request funding from the European Union for joint projects. The goal is to create a network of bunkers, borders, dividing lines, and military warehouses along the EU’s eastern borders with Russia and Belarus. This integrated approach to regional defense aims to enhance protection capabilities and prevent potential aggression, especially in the context of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and increased activity in the region. It is clear that Poland is taking significant steps to strengthen its security in these turbulent times, investing not only money but also strategic vision into defense systems. Given the regional situation and rising tensions, these investments are likely to be crucial for the stability of the eastern flank of Europe and the overall defense capability of the European Solidarity community.