Polish forces intercepted multiple Russian drones that entered the country’s airspace on Wednesday, marking the first such engagement since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Defence Ministry described the breach as “unprecedented” amid ongoing conflict near Poland’s eastern border.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk said he was in close contact with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and allies following the incident, which involved a “huge number” of drones. NATO confirmed coordinated air defences prevented further incursions. Several airports, including Warsaw Chopin, briefly closed but have since reopened.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called the drone attack part of a “massive” Russian offensive and accused Vladimir Putin of escalating tensions by “testing the West.” He urged urgent reinforcement of Ukraine’s air defences and stronger sanctions on Russia.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said about eight drones crossed into Polish airspace, calling it “an extremely dangerous precedent for Europe.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned Russia’s “reckless” act and pledged full EU solidarity with Poland. She announced plans for a 19th sanctions package to increase pressure on Moscow and accelerate the phase-out of Russian fossil fuels.
French President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders also denounced the incursion.
The incident raises concerns over Russia’s willingness to test NATO’s resolve, with NATO affirming its commitment to collective defence. Poland’s swift response displays rising fears that the conflict could spill beyond Ukraine’s borders, emphasising the need for urgent and unified Western action to contain further escalation.