Ukraine and EU Neighbours Strengthen Border Cooperation Amid Wartime Security Challenges
October 22, 2026
With Russia’s continued attacks on Ukraine’s border infrastructure, close cooperation between Ukrainian authorities and their counterparts in neighbouring EU countries is more important than ever. Ensuring safe and efficient border crossings requires not only effective security measures but also the ability to respond together to rapidly changing circumstances.
Against this backdrop, the EU Advisory Mission (EUAM) Ukraine brought together more than 30 representatives of border, customs and police authorities from Ukraine, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and Romania for a two-day conference in Zakarpattia Oblast on 14–15 October. The event provided an opportunity to exchange experiences, discuss common challenges and explore ways to strengthen cooperation along Ukraine’s western borders.
A central theme of the discussions was the need to adapt existing cross-border arrangements to wartime realities. Participants highlighted the need for flexible procedures, effective communication and joint responses to emerging security threats.
“With repeated air attacks on border-crossing points, close cooperation between Ukrainian authorities and their counterparts in neighbouring EU Member States – at both national and local levels – is more important than ever,” said Juergen Illig, Head of IBM Component at EUAM Ukraine. “We value the existing cooperation in adapting procedures to these threats. EUAM will continue facilitating international cooperation, including through bilateral joint border committees.”
Beyond immediate security concerns, the conference also looked at how stronger cooperation can support Ukraine’s long-term efforts to bring its border management practices closer to European standards. As Ukraine advances its Integrated State Border Management Strategy, effective partnerships with neighbouring countries will be essential to ensuring that borders remain secure while allowing people and goods to move smoothly.
“Border security is not merely a matter of national responsibility. It is a joint endeavour that requires trust, coordinated action, the prompt exchange of information and effective cooperation between all parties involved,” emphasised Andriy Vikhtyuk, Director of the Department for Organisation, Planning and Control at the State Border Guard Service Administration.
Discussions covered practical areas where closer cooperation can make a difference, including information exchange, risk management, coordination between border and customs authorities, and improvements to border-crossing points. Participants also considered future challenges linked to Ukraine’s reconstruction, when growing cross-border traffic is expected to place additional demands on border infrastructure and services.
For EUAM, these efforts are closely connected to Ukraine’s broader European integration path. Aligning procedures with the European approach to integrated border management can help build trust between neighbouring authorities, improve coordination and provide a common basis for addressing cross-border challenges.
“Fully implementing and consistently applying the European integrated border management model is our priority. It provides a solid foundation for mutual understanding and a framework for addressing cross-border challenges,” said Andrzej Rytwinski, IBM Coordination Adviser at EUAM Ukraine.
The conference also offered an opportunity to discuss EUAM and Frontex initiatives aimed at supporting Ukrainian border authorities and strengthening their cooperation with European partners.
EUAM Ukraine will continue supporting Ukrainian institutions in strengthening cooperation with their European counterparts, helping build a border management system that is secure, resilient and increasingly aligned with EU standards.
