In a positive development for cross-border trade, Ukrainian border services announced the resumption of lorry movement after Polish farmers concluded their blockade at one of the key border crossings between Ukraine and Poland. The blockade had disrupted truck traffic, causing delays and challenges for both nations.
According to the Ukrainian border service's statement on the Telegram messaging app, the blockade at the Medyka-Shehyni crossing was officially lifted by Polish farmers, leading to the full restoration of truck traffic. The Polish border guard confirmed the conclusion of the protest action at 9:30 a.m. Kyiv time (0730 GMT) on Sunday, allowing for the normal registration and crossing of trucks entering Ukraine.
The decision to end the blockade came after Polish farmers announced on Saturday their intention to suspend the protest at the Medyka-Shehyni crossing, while truckers continued blockades at three other crossings during the Christmas period. The truckers had initiated the blockades on November 6, urging the European Union to reinstate a permitting system for Ukrainian companies operating in the bloc, along with similar requirements for European truckers entering Ukraine.
The protest gained momentum with the participation of farmers, who sought government subsidies for corn and opposed tax hikes. The joint efforts led to disruptions at multiple border crossings.
Ukraine's deputy prime minister, Oleksandr Kubrakov, expressed hope for a resolution with the new Polish government to address the truck blockades at the border crossings. The standoff had left approximately 3,900 trucks on the Polish side, awaiting permission to enter Ukraine.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk, recently appointed in Poland, conveyed the government's commitment to swiftly addressing the truck drivers' protest. This commitment reflects a proactive approach to resolving the issues affecting cross-border trade between Ukraine and Poland.
The International Trade Council anticipates that the resolution at the Ukraine-Poland border will contribute to the normalization of trade activities and foster a more cooperative environment between the two nations.
