Ukraine-Poland border: September 18 checkpoint situation explained
Possible queues at the Polish border (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
At the Ukraine–Poland border in the Lviv region, queues and traffic delays are being reported. The most challenging situation is at the Shehyni checkpoint, where dozens of vehicles are gathering, according to a post by the State Border Guard Service on Telegram.
The border situation in the Lviv region is causing significant delays for road transport.
At the Shehyni checkpoint, around 150 cars are waiting to pass control. About 20 vehicles are queued at Krakovets, and around 10 cars are waiting at Nyzhankovychi. Meanwhile, traffic at the Smolnica, Uhryniv, Hruszów, and Rava-Ruska checkpoints is moving without interruptions.
According to Ukrainian and Polish authorities, the increased processing time at the border is due to several factors. In particular, the Polish side has begun testing a new biometric system. This system requires mandatory facial scanning and fingerprinting when crossing the border in both directions. These procedures take more time and can slow down the flow of travelers.
An additional complication is ongoing repair work on the Ukrainian side of the Shehyni checkpoint. Due to reconstruction, the processing capacity has been temporarily reduced, making it more difficult for both passenger cars and trucks to pass through.
The Polish Senate approved a new law concerning rules for foreigners and support measures for Ukrainian citizens. The legislation extends the legal stay for Ukrainians in Poland, but also introduces certain limitations on access to social assistance and healthcare services.
Furthermore, Poland has appealed to European Union countries to completely stop importing Russian oil by the end of 2026. According to the initiators, this move would reduce financial inflows to the Russian military sector and serve as an important factor in bringing the war in Ukraine closer to an end.
