Poland Engages in Urgent Defense as Russian Drones Violate Airspace

Sat Sep 13 2025 09:14:41 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a significant escalation of tensions, Poland has reported the downing of multiple Russian drones that violated its airspace during nighttime attacks on Ukraine, signaling a potential turning point in regional security dynamics.

Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk noted that at least three Russian drones were shot down after they invaded Polish airspace, marking the first such incident since the commencement of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This provocative act has sparked discussions about heightened security measures and NATO's collective response, with Tusk emphasizing the increasing risk of conflict at the EU's borders. The Polish military was placed on high alert and received support from NATO forces during the incident.

Poland has taken decisive military action after at least three Russian drones were shot down over its airspace, following violations during overnight attacks targeting Ukraine. This noteworthy incident was confirmed by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who stated that Poland recorded 19 drone incursions, some of which forced the temporary closure of four airports, including the capital's Chopin Airport.

In a statement, Tusk remarked, This situation brings us the closest we have been to open conflict since World War Two. This marks a significant moment, as it is the first time Russian drones have been intercepted over NATO territory since the outset of the conflict in Ukraine.

The situation is further complicated by Russia's defense ministry, which claimed there were no intentions to strike Polish targets. In contrast, Belarus suggested that the drones' incursion was accidental, caused by navigation system malfunctions.

Ukrainian leaders have expressed alarm at the incident. President Volodymyr Zelensky labeled it a dangerous precedent for Europe, while Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal underscored that the global impact of Russian aggression is felt beyond just Ukraine.

On the Polish front, Tusk indicated that he was considering invoking Article 4 of the NATO treaty, which facilitates urgent consultations among member countries. The Polish Defense Ministry confirmed that the drones, which posed a potential threat, were shot down proactively. NATO aircraft, including F-35s and F-16s, were deployed to assist.

This incident follows a series of aerial incursions since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, underscoring the escalating tensions in the region. Experts warn that the armed drones could be a Russian strategy to probe Poland's readiness while exploiting political divides.

Local officials in Poland are now focused on enhancing community defenses, with calls for more robust measures to ensure public safety amidst growing regional instability.