Ukrainian Trucks Delivering to Poland by Rail Amid Border Blockade
Ukraine has initiated the transportation of trucks through the blocked railway border with Poland, as announced on Facebook by the Ukrainian state railway operator "Ukrzaliznytsia."
The message specifically mentions that one of the first convoys of trucks traveling to Poland by rail has successfully reached its destination. During this process, both parties agreed on all aspects of transportation and resolved all border formalities. After arrival, the trucks will continue their journey to their destinations via regular roads.
Rail transportation for lorries was organized in response to the blockade of the Polish-Ukrainian border by Polish carriers, which began on November 6. The blockade demanded the reinstatement of permits for Ukrainian carriers, canceled by an agreement with the European Union until June 30, 2024. Currently, truck movement remains blocked at three major border crossings: "Korczowa – Krakovets," "Hrebenne - Rava-Ruska," and "Dorohusk – Yahodyn."
Due to this situation, "Ukrzaliznytsia" plans to make future rail journeys for lorry transportation along the Sknyliv (Ukraine) - Slawkow (Poland) route regular. Additionally, the railway operator aims to use more modernized platforms for transportation.
It is worth noting that the Association of Slovak Carriers has lifted the border blockade between Slovakia and Ukraine, allowing trucks to move through the Vysne Nemecke-Uzhhorod checkpoint. Ukrainian border officials report an increase in truck traffic using the Slovakian border due to complications at the Polish border, making this a crucial step in ensuring the transportation of goods from European countries.
However, the Slovak Association of Hauliers has announced the continuation of the blockade of the border crossing "Vysne Nemecke - Uzhhorod" from 3:00 PM on Monday, December 11. It is reported that the protest by Slovak long-haul drivers on the Ukrainian-Slovak border will continue "until further notice." The association of hauliers noted that entry into the territory of the Slovak Republic for cargo transport will be blocked, while passenger transport will not be restricted.
Earlier, the European Commission expressed opposition to the reinstatement of a permit system for Ukrainian long-haul drivers, as demanded by Polish and Slovak border blockaders.