On September 10, Poland reported an incursion involving Russian drones, prompting several NATO members to enhance their military presence along the eastern flank. In the early hours of the day, Polish forces shot down three Russian drones that had entered its airspace, while others crashed and were subsequently discovered in eastern Poland. In response to this incident, Poland has requested a meeting of the UN Security Council, scheduled for Friday at 19:00 GMT.
In reaction to the incursion, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic committed to sending air defense systems, troops, and artillery to Poland. Lithuania announced it would bolster its defense by receiving a German brigade and improved monitoring of potential Russian threats. Germany indicated it would increase its involvement in the region and expand air policing operations in Poland.
Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz detailed offers of support from various partners during a parliamentary session, which included Dutch air defense systems and Czech helicopters. Though previous instances of Russian drones and missiles violating airspace occurred, the Polish government assessed this incident as the most significant since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. The Kremlin, however, declined to comment on accusations that it aimed to escalate tensions.
Discussions among experts remain divided on whether the drone incursion was intentional. NATO military commander Alexus Grynkewich noted that investigations into the number and intent of the drones are ongoing. As regional tensions escalate, Poland is implementing restrictions on drones and small aircraft near its eastern borders while Latvia has closed its airspace for a week. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky offered to assist Western allies in countering aerial threats and called for a joint air defense system over Europe.
Heightening concerns in the region coincide with upcoming joint military exercises between Belarus and Russia, named Zapad 2025. Poland has decided to close its border with Belarus in light of these military drills, which it described as aggressive.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0lkz2n34z6o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss