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Poland’s military confirmed it shot down several Russian drones after its aircraft and those of NATO allies scrambled in response to an unprecedented violation of Polish airspace. This followed intense Russian attacks on western Ukraine.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that a “huge number” of Russian drones violated Polish airspace, with some posing a direct threat and being shot down. He noted ongoing contact with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Newsweek reached out to the Kremlin for comment but received none.
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Why It Matters
This event highlights Poland’s frequent responses to Russian aerial attacks on Ukraine, which have been ongoing since early 2019. NATO members are collectively obliged to respond under Article 5 of their founding treaty, though Russian drones in NATO airspace aren’t considered direct attacks.
Russia has continued to launch missile and drone attacks on Ukraine despite U.S. efforts for a ceasefire, as well as criticism from the Trump administration about targeting Ukrainian cities.
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What To Know
The Polish armed forces’ operational command reported initiating defensive procedures after repeated violations of Polish airspace by drone-type objects as Russian forces attacked western Ukraine.
“This is an act of aggression that poses a real threat to the safety of our citizens,” said the Polish military statement, which added that “some” intruding drones were shot down and searches for crash sites continued.
The Polish military was monitoring the situation, with Polish and allied forces on full alert. Chopin Airport warned passengers about airspace closure due to government security measures but noted that flight operations were suspended.
Ukraine’s air force reported Russian drones entering its airspace, threatening cities like Zamosc. Ukrainian media also confirmed several Russian drones had crossed into Poland.
What People Are Saying
Senator Dick Durbin of the Senate Judiciary Committee: “Repeated violations by Russian drones are a warning that Vladimir Putin is testing NATO’s resolve to protect Poland and other Baltic nations. These incursions cannot be ignored.”
Polish Deputy Prime Minister Radoslaw Sikorski: “President Trump was right that Europeans had disarmed themselves for too long…If we do this, then by the end of this decade, Russia will be in no position to threaten us.”
Update 9/10/2025 3:05 a.m. ET: The story and headline have been updated with comments by Donald Tusk.
Update 9/10/2025 2:00 a.m. ET: This story has been updated to include more information.
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