Poland has reported a surge in drone activity near its border with Belarus, intensifying tensions in the region. The announcement came on Thursday, September 18, 2025, following the closure of several border crossings due to ongoing military exercises involving Belarus and its ally, Russia. The ‘Zapad’ (West) war games, which concluded recently, had already raised alarms when approximately 21 Russian drones breached Polish airspace on September 9-10. Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski, who assumed office in July 2025, stated that the border would remain closed until the situation stabilizes. ‘Last night, the Border Guard observed increased activity by Belarusian and Russian drones attempting to cross Polish airspace,’ Kierwinski said. ‘The situation on the Polish-Belarusian border remains very, very tense.’ While no Polish intervention or drone shootdowns were reported, the heightened activity underscores the strained relations between Poland and Belarus. Belarus has deepened its alliance with Russia, particularly since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, allowing Russian troops to transit through its territory. Poland, a staunch supporter of Ukraine, has already closed four of its six road border crossings with Belarus, along with three rail crossings for freight. The ongoing friction continues to strain regional security and diplomatic relations.