**Polish Truckers End Blockade at Ukraine Border**
After a day of protests, Polish truckers have lifted their blockade at the Yahodyn-Dorohusk checkpoint on the Ukrainian border. The move comes after a court ruling in Poland upheld the decision to ban rallies at the site.
According to reports from Ukraine’s State Border Guard, truck traffic is now moving as usual in both directions. This marks an end to the protests that started on May 12 at 4 p.m. local time. During the blockade, truck passage was limited to one vehicle per hour in each direction.
The protesters had been demanding attention for what they called the “plight of transport companies and the threat to thousands of jobs.” However, their actions have caused significant disruptions to trade between Poland and Ukraine.
**Background on Polish-Ukrainian Tensions**
This is not the first time that Polish truckers have launched protests at the Ukrainian border. In recent years, they have blocked traffic for months in opposition to Ukrainian agricultural imports and the EU’s decision to lift most duties on Ukrainian imports in 2022.
The protests are a symptom of deeper tensions between Poland and Ukraine, with issues such as trade and economic policy causing friction between the two nations. While the blockade has ended, it remains to be seen whether these underlying tensions will ease or continue to cause problems for both countries.
**Impact on Trade**
The blockade had significant impacts on trade between Poland and Ukraine. Overnight on May 13, only eight trucks were processed at the Yahodyn customs post. Gasoline and gas tankers were allowed to pass along with other trucks, but under strict limits.
Some trucks have been waiting in line for over a day, according to reports from Ukraine’s State Border Guard. The delays will likely have an impact on businesses that rely on trade between Poland and Ukraine.
**What’s Next?**
As the blockade has ended, attention is now turning to what the next steps will be for Polish truckers and their demands. Will they continue to protest, or have they achieved their goals through this latest action?
The answer to these questions will likely depend on a range of factors, including the outcome of trade negotiations between Poland and Ukraine, as well as the broader economic context in which they operate.
**Follow-Up**
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