Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced Wednesday that the country's airspace was violated by a "huge number of Russian drones," with some posing a "direct threat." The incident marks one of the most significant escalations in regional tensions since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.
Military Response and Airport Closures
Poland's armed forces confirmed they shot down multiple drones after repeated airspace violations between Tuesday and Wednesday. The military activated all defense protocols, deploying allied aircraft and raising radar systems to maximum readiness. Four airports, including Warsaw's Chopin Airport, temporarily halted operations due to "unplanned military activity" linked to national security concerns.
Global Condemnation and NATO Meeting
NATO spokesperson Allison Hart stated the alliance will review its response to the incident during an emergency North Atlantic Council session. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called the violations "unacceptable," while French President Emmanuel Macron labeled the event "simply unacceptable." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed at least eight Russian drones were directed toward Poland overnight.
A Russian diplomat disputed the claims, telling state media RIA that Poland provided no evidence linking the drones to Russia. Polish President Karol Nawrocki has convened a National Security Council meeting to address what he described as an "unprecedented" security challenge.
