The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting Friday to address Poland's accusation that Russia launched a drone raid on its territory, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. The incident, which occurred overnight Tuesday to Wednesday, prompted NATO allies to reinforce defenses along Poland's eastern borders and triggered widespread condemnation from European leaders.
NATO Allies Rally Behind Poland
Poland described the drone incursion as an "unprecedented" attack on its sovereignty, with President Karol Nawrocki stating it tested NATO's readiness. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed expanded participation in NATO's Air Policing mission to bolster Polish airspace security. The Czech Republic, Netherlands, and Sweden summoned Russian ambassadors in protest, while Poland closed civilian airspace near Belarus and Ukraine until December 9.
Russia Denies Involvement
Moscow rejected claims of responsibility, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova urging Poland to reconsider its airspace restrictions. Polish officials reported 19 airspace violations but noted minimal damage—a destroyed house and vehicle—with no casualties.
NATO's Article 4 Activation
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk invoked NATO's Article 4 for urgent consultations, only the eighth such use in the alliance's history. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte condemned Russia's "reckless behavior" while affirming the effectiveness of collective defense measures. EU and Ukrainian officials framed the incident as a critical test of Western resolve amid ongoing regional instability.
