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Poland secures EU funding for Eastern Shield defense project

20.03.2025 12:50
Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk announced the deal in parliament, emphasizing that the Eastern Shield has now become an official EU-backed project.
Polish Deputy Minister of National Defense Cezary Tomczyk in the Sejm (Polands lower house of Parliament), Warsaw, March 20, 2025.
Polish Deputy Minister of National Defense Cezary Tomczyk in the Sejm (Poland’s lower house of Parliament), Warsaw, March 20, 2025.Photo: PAP/Marcin Obara

Poland has reached a preliminary agreement with the European Investment Bank (EIB) for €1 billion in funding to support the Eastern Shield, a major defense initiative aimed at fortifying its borders with Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine.

The initiative includes constructing fortifications, military shelters, and strategic infrastructure along Poland’s eastern and northern borders.

Poland has already invested nearly 1 billion złoty ($250 million) in the project, and additional funding is expected from various EU defense programs.

The Eastern Shield spans approximately 800 kilometers and is designed to enhance Poland’s security as tensions with Russia persist.

The European Parliament recently recognized the project as a flagship initiative for EU-wide defense.

Tomczyk stressed the need for continued European investment in security, with Poland actively seeking further financial support through multiple EU defense funds. The first phase of construction is set to begin this year.

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Source: IAR/PAP/X/@PremierRP