Slovakia has announced indefinite protests by carriers on the border with Ukraine, and a blockade of truck traffic on the Ukrainian-Hungarian border is also possible in the near future. Denys Marchuk, Deputy Chairman of the UAC, explained how this threatens exporters, how long the blockade can be continued, and how the problem can be solved.

"Truck routes through Slovakia and Hungary are extremely important during the blockade of the Ukrainian-Polish border. These alternative logistics routes have become the choice for carriers facing a prolonged blockade. However, queues with a large number of vehicles have already begun to form at the alternative border crossing points. In addition, these destinations were the points of return for trucks to Ukraine. Statements of indefinite protests from Slovakia and Hungary promise further traffic complications. It is expected that no more than 1-2 vehicles will be able to move per hour, which will lead to serious problems with the movement of all types of goods that Ukraine exports, especially in winter. This applies to both the raw materials group - grains and oilseeds - and value-added goods that have been successfully sold on the shelves of European stores," said Denys Marchuk.

The political factor of the blockade will remain prevailing until the European Commission reconsiders the visa-free regime.

"The breakthrough of the blockade is real, but political motivations remain the prevailing factor. The Polish authorities can restrict the possibility of holding rallies of carriers in certain areas, but they do not take such measures. A new Cabinet of Ministers is expected to be formed in Poland, which could speed up the process of diplomatic negotiations. However, it is important to remember that success in unblocking the western borders depends on the participation of both Ukraine and Brussels. The demands of Polish carriers and Slovakia are related to the "visa-free travel" issued by Brussels. Therefore, even if the blockade is lifted, the political context of this issue will remain relevant in Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary. This will be continued until the European Commission considers the issue of visa-free traffic of goods from Ukraine in June 2024," summarized the UAC Deputy Chairman.