Polish farmers, who previously blocked the border with Ukraine at Medyka to protest agricultural policies, may resume their actions on December 10, extending the protests to the entire eastern border.
Initially, the protests, which began on November 23, were suspended until this date to allow time for the government to address their concerns.
Agriculture Minister Czesław Siekierski, after meeting with the farmers, committed to responding to their demands by December 10. One of the key issues raised by the farmers is opposition to the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement, which they fear could lead to an influx of agricultural products from South American countries into Poland.
In response, Siekierski announced that the Ministry of Agriculture, alongside the Ministry of Development, is preparing a joint stance against the EU-Mercosur deal ahead of an upcoming government meeting. Farmers have also protested against agricultural tax policies. Siekierski clarified that funds intended for the fourth payment to all farmers have been redirected to cover the third and fourth tax payments for those impacted by adverse weather conditions like frosts, hail, or heavy rains.
The protests also addressed amendments to the “chains law,” which regulates the treatment of animals in farming. Initially planned to run until the end of the year, the protests are now poised to escalate unless the farmers’ demands are addressed by December 10.
