Criticism continues to mount against the government over its inaction in response to the transport of illegal migrants into Poland by Germany. Among those who have spoken out is former Chief of the State Fire Service, Andrzej Bartkowiak. He recalled the actions taken by the services when foreigners attempted to enter Poland from the east.
A practice is currently underway whereby illegal migrants are being brought into Poland by German authorities. Many residents of border towns are mobilizing and independently taking it upon themselves to guard the borders. A significant role in this effort is being played by the Border Defense Movement, initiated by Robert Bąkiewicz.
Many commentators believe the current situation reveals the government’s helplessness. This sentiment is echoed in the remarks of former State Fire Service Chief Andrzej Bartkowiak. He reminded the public of how the previous administration managed the peak of the hybrid operation orchestrated against Poland by Belarus. At that time, current government officials were strongly critical of the firm measures taken.
“I remember very well 2021 and the defense of the eastern border. The defense of the border crossing in Kuźnica. Full coordination by the Ministry of the Interior and Administration, top-level cooperation between the Police, Border Guard, State Fire Service, Volunteer Fire Brigades, and the Territorial Defense Forces! Water supply, logistics, lifts, tankers […]” – wrote Bartkowiak.
And he added: “And today… hmm. You should judge.”
It is worth noting that Prime Minister Donald Tusk addressed the situation at the western border on Monday. He declared that he would “bring order to it.” However, he did not comment on the transport of illegal migrants by Germany—insisting that such a problem does not exist—but rather focused on the border defenders.