Poland Closes Belarus Border Halting 90% China-EU Rail Freight Over Security Concerns

Poland has indefinitely closed its border crossings with Belarus in response to the Russian-Belarusian Zapad-2025 military drills and security threats, including Russian drone incursions. This closure disrupts a critical rail corridor that carries 90% of the rail freight between China and the European Union, impacting €25 billion worth of trade annually and blocking all cargo, including urgent supplies like medicine and food. The corridor's share of EU-China trade has risen significantly, now accounting for 3.7% of total trade. Polish authorities emphasize that security concerns have overridden trade considerations, with no clear timeline for reopening the border, causing uncertainty for businesses and prompting warnings that prolonged closure could force rerouting of shipments through Central Asia and southern Europe, increasing costs and logistical complexity. China has urged Poland to ensure the safe operation of this transport link, but Poland maintains its stance prioritizing security. The European Commission is monitoring the situation, while logistics operators and trade analysts express concern about long-term disruptions and economic consequences across Europe and Asia.