Russian Drones Breach Polish Airspace in Ukraine Conflict

Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk reported that a significant number of drones entered Polish airspace during a major attack on western Ukraine. Tusk stated that the drones were shot down after violating Polish airspace, with reports indicating damage to a residential building in Wyryki, eastern Poland, but no injuries were reported.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the attack involved eight drones, emphasizing that it was not an isolated incident. The incident prompted Warsaw to condemn Russia's actions as an act of aggression, leading to the closure and subsequent reopening of several airports in Poland.

Nato, in response to the drone incursion, did not consider it an attack but acknowledged the intentional violation by Russian drones. Nato aircraft, including Polish F-16 fighter jets, Dutch F-35, Italian AWACS surveillance planes, and mid-air refueling aircraft, were involved in the operation to address the incursion.

Poland called for an emergency Nato council meeting following the incursion, aiming to discuss the alliance's obligation to defend its members under Article Five. The move was seen as a test of the alliance's unity, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions.

Prime Minister Tusk chaired an emergency meeting in response to the airspace violation, stating that Poland stands ready to react to any provocations. The incident was viewed as a large-scale provocation, with drone components found in southeastern Poland. No injuries were reported as a result of the attack.

The incursion of Russian drones into Polish airspace was described as a deliberate act by Tusk, who highlighted the ongoing communication with Nato's secretary-general. Zelensky condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for consequences for Russia's actions and warning of the dangerous precedent set by the incident.

In conclusion, the incursion of Russian drones into Polish airspace during the attack on Ukraine underscored escalating tensions in the region, with Poland responding by downing the drones and restoring operations at affected airports. Ukraine's foreign minister criticized Russia's actions as part of Putin's strategy to test the West's response and expand the conflict.