Polish Forces Take Action
Poland has confirmed its military is shooting down Russian drones after they “repeatedly violated” the country’s airspace during overnight attacks on Ukraine.
Official Statement
The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces said on X that “weapons have been used, and operations are underway to locate the downed targets” after multiple breaches.
First Engagement With Russian Assets
The announcement marks the first time in the conflict that Poland has directly engaged Russian military assets inside its territory.
NATO Air Defences Activated
Military officials confirmed that Polish and NATO air defences were scrambled in response to the incursions, signalling the seriousness of the threat.
Public Safety Warning Issued
Residents in Podlaskie, Mazowieckie, and Lublin were urged to remain indoors as operations continued through the night.
Prime Minister’s Response
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk repeated the warning, confirming that “an operation is underway related to the repeated violation of Polish airspace.”
Strikes Near Lviv
In neighbouring Ukraine, the city of Lviv appeared to be one of Russia’s main targets, with explosions reported by Mayor Andriy Sadovy on Telegram.
Defence Minister Confirms NATO Coordination
Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz stressed that Warsaw is “in constant contact with NATO command” over the situation.
Historic Sensitivities
Poland has been on heightened alert since 2022, when a stray Ukrainian missile struck a Polish village near the border, killing two people.
Airports Closed Amid Strikes
According to the US Federal Aviation Administration, Poland temporarily closed four airports, including Warsaw Chopin and Rzeszów-Jasionka, which serves as a hub for military and humanitarian support to Ukraine.
Ukraine Walks Back Initial Report
Ukraine’s air force initially claimed Russian drones had entered Polish airspace, threatening the city of Zamosc. That statement was later removed from Telegram.
Wider Impact of Strikes
The disruptions to air travel highlighted the broader impact of Russia’s drone campaign, which continues to spill over into neighbouring NATO states.
Trump Signals New Putin Call
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump revealed he expects to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin soon, following their first direct meeting in years.
Possible Timing
Speaking in Washington, Trump suggested the call could take place “this week or early next week,” though no official date has been announced.
NATO’s View on Trump’s Role
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte told Sky’s Yalda Hakim that he views Trump as “crucial” to any efforts to bring Putin to the negotiating table.
US Monitoring Situation
CNN reported that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been briefed on the situation in Poland as Washington closely tracks developments.
A Critical Moment for NATO
The incident underscores growing risks for NATO members as Russia’s war on Ukraine increasingly tests the alliance’s airspace and security commitments.
