Amid rising tensions, Polish farmers repeatedly plan to protest against EU trade liberalization with Ukraine. The EU is seeking to expand agricultural trade to support Ukraine's war-torn economy. However, this is met with resistance. Poland and other neighboring countries fear their markets will be flooded with cheaper Ukrainian products, threatening their agriculture. Last year, the protests were accompanied by massive blockades at the most important border crossings with Ukraine.

Now rail freight transport, an important trade route, is also being targeted by the protests. From February 20th, all border crossings and traffic junctions should be blocked. Polish farmers are calling for an end to liberalization and criticizing the passivity of the authorities. These blockades could significantly impact Ukrainian exports and highlight the deep conflicts within EU agricultural policy.

Local farmers' fears: A fight for survival

Although there was an agreement in the meantime, which is why the occupations were ended at short notice, the EU's willingness to compromise was not enough for the farmers, which is why blockades are to be expected throughout the border area from Tuesday. Even the well-known trade union Solidarnosc has joined and is supporting these protests.

At the core of the protests is the fear that the Polish agricultural economy will be undermined by competition from cheaper imports. Ukraine's neighboring countries had already imposed import bans on food products in April, a clear sign of resistance to the EU's liberalization plans. Polish farmers have expressed their discontent by organizing blockades at border crossings, seaports and rail junctions, targeting rail freight transport, a vital trade route for Ukrainian exports to Europe.

Solidarity leads the resistance: a complete blockade

The escalating protests, led by the independent Solidarity trade union, aim to completely block the flow of Ukrainian goods to Poland in order to send a strong signal against the EU's liberalization policies. These actions not only highlight the deep economic and social divisions within the EU, but also raise questions about the effectiveness and fairness of common trade policies in times of geopolitical tensions.

The dilemma facing the EU – supporting Ukraine in a time of need against the legitimate fears of its own farmers – is a reflection of the complex nature of international relations and trade policies. How the EU responds to this challenge will shape not only the future of its relations with Ukraine, but also the trust of its citizens in the Union's ability to protect their interests.