Poland–Belarus Border Tensions Mount, Prompting Fears of Wider Conflict

Patriot launchers modules mounted on M983 HEMTT part of the U.S. made MIM-104 Patriot surface-to-air missile (SAM) system are pictured on a open field on Feb. 18, 2023, in Zamosc, Poland. Omar Marques/Getty Images

Over the past month, NATO member Poland has bolstered its military presence on its border with Belarus, a close Russian ally. The move has raised concern that the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine could escalate into a wider conflict.

On July 21, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stressed Berlin’s readiness, backed by NATO, to support Poland’s defense of the alliance’s eastern flank.