Warsaw — NATO fighter jets shot down multiple Russian drones that entered Polish airspace overnight during a large-scale strike on Ukraine, in what officials said was the alliance’s first direct military action since the war began.
Polish and Dutch aircraft led the interceptions, supported by Italian, German, and NATO multinational forces. Prime Minister Donald Tusk called the incident an “unprecedented violation” of Polish sovereignty, confirming 19 breaches of airspace, many from Belarus.
“No one was injured, but Poland has never been closer to open conflict since World War II,” Tusk told lawmakers, announcing that Warsaw has triggered Article 4 of the NATO treaty for urgent consultations.
Moscow Denies Intent
Russia’s Defense Ministry admitted to striking Ukraine but denied targeting Poland, claiming its drones lacked the range to reach Polish territory. The Foreign Ministry accused Warsaw of “fabricating myths” to escalate the crisis.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte rejected Moscow’s defense, calling the incursions “absolutely reckless” and vowing the alliance would defend “every inch” of its territory.
Damage on the Ground
Polish officials confirmed a home in the eastern village of Wyryki was damaged. Prosecutors said debris from Russian-made Shahed drones — locally called Gerbera — was found in multiple regions.
Deputy Prime Minister Radosław Sikorski said the sheer number of drones made it clear the violation was intentional. “Nineteen drones cannot be accidental,” he said.
Global Reactions
European leaders denounced the breach. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius called it a “targeted provocation,” while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said it revealed Vladimir Putin’s “total disregard for peace.” EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described it as the most serious airspace violation in Europe since Russia’s invasion began.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky labeled the incident “another step of escalation” and urged strong allied retaliation. Ukraine said it faced its heaviest barrage in months, with more than 400 drones and 40 missiles launched overnight.
In Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump posted a brief reaction on Truth Social: “What’s with Russia violating Poland’s airspace with drones? Here we go!”
Rising Tensions
The incident comes just days before Russia and Belarus begin large-scale military drills near Poland’s border. Warsaw announced it will close all crossings with Belarus at midnight Thursday, citing national security concerns.
Analysts warn Moscow may be probing NATO’s unity as ceasefire talks with the U.S. falter. “Putin wants to demonstrate strength and exploit Western divisions,” said Edward Arnold of the Royal United Services Institute. “But this also shows he has no intention of ending the war.”
