Warsaw, Poland - September 28, 2025 - The Polish government has issued an urgent and unequivocal advisory to all its citizens currently in Belarus, demanding an immediate departure by "any necessary means." The directive, released late Thursday, cites an increasing risk of "unforeseen circumstances" and a deteriorating security situation as the primary drivers for this drastic call to evacuation.
The advisory comes amidst a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. Earlier this week, NATO member states, in a coordinated move, officially closed their borders to Kaliningrad. This action effectively severs the primary land bridge connecting the Russian territory to mainland Russia, which relies heavily on transit through Belarus.
Sources within the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, speaking on condition of anonymity, have indicated that the decision to urge citizens out of Belarus is a direct consequence of the escalating situation surrounding Kaliningrad and the compromised transit routes through Belarusian territory. While specifics of the "unforeseen circumstances" remain vague, the implication is that Belarus could become an increasingly unpredictable and potentially hostile environment for foreign nationals.
The closure of NATO borders to Kaliningrad has significantly amplified existing concerns about regional stability. Belarus, a close ally of Russia, has been a key transit point for goods and individuals traveling to and from Kaliningrad. With these routes now severely restricted by NATO, the strategic importance and potential vulnerability of Belarus have been thrust into sharp focus.
Polish citizens in Belarus are being advised to consult their nearest diplomatic or consular mission for assistance, though the advisory emphasizes that the priority is immediate departure, utilizing any available and safe method. This could include commercial flights, private vehicles, or even cross-border travel through alternative routes that may still be open, though no specific alternatives have been officially detailed.
The Polish government's strong wording, particularly "by any necessary means," suggests a significant level of concern within Warsaw regarding Polish citizens' safety and well-being in Belarus. The advisory is a stark indicator of the rapidly evolving and precarious security landscape in Eastern Europe. Further details on the specific risks are expected to be released as the situation develops.