Poland shoots down Russian drones after major airspace violation as WW3 fears escalate

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has confirmed that several Russian drones were shot down after violating Polish airspace during overnight attacks on Ukraine. The incidents, which occurred early Wednesday, saw as many as 19 drone incursions recorded.

Tusk described the breach as a “large-scale provocation” requiring decisive action from Poland. He stressed that the country must prepare for all possible scenarios as the war continues to spill over borders.

According to Polish authorities, some of the drones had also crossed Belarus, a close ally of Russia that has been repeatedly used as a launch site for attacks on Ukraine. Out of the 19 drones tracked, multiple were destroyed by Polish defenses.

Belarus, however, claimed the drones had “lost their way” and insisted it had shot down some on its own territory. Moscow dismissed Poland’s accusations as “groundless,” saying no proof had been provided to link the drones to Russia.

Despite these denials, Poland’s military operational command labeled the violations an “act of aggression.” President Karol Nawrocki reassured citizens that national security remained the government’s top priority.

In response, Tusk activated Article 4 of NATO’s treaty, enabling consultations with alliance members. NATO confirmed that its assets assisted Poland’s air defenses, marking the first time NATO has directly engaged with Russian targets since the invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.

European leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, condemned the violation. He called Russia’s actions reckless and a stark reminder of Putin’s disregard for peace, while Polish forces later confirmed their airspace security had been restored.