Poland is tightening its borders as concerns over illegal migration continue to grow. At the same time, the government has expanded the legal protection available to soldiers operating at the border, including clearer rules governing the use of firearms in situations involving a direct threat to the border, life, health or the safety of personnel. Polish soldiers are already supporting the Border Guard at the borders with Germany and Lithuania, with the current mandate extending until October 1, 2026. The situation raises an uncomfortable question: are we witnessing a temporary response to the migration crisis, or the beginning of a much broader transformation of how European countries protect their borders?