Unprecedented Airspace Violation

Polish airspace was violated by at least 19 Russian drones overnight, prompting a response from the country’s air force, which successfully shot down several of the unmanned aircraft. Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed that drones posing direct threats were neutralized.

Impact on Wyryki

During the overnight incident, Russian drones violated Polish airspace, with debris striking a house in the village of Wyryki, causing damage to both the roof and a car. According to Bernard Blaszczuk, the mayor of Wyryki, while people were inside the building at the time of the incident, fortunately no one was injured.

NATO and International Response

The military response included the deployment of two Polish F-16s and two Dutch F-35s to help ensure safety in Polish skies. The gravity of the situation was emphasized by Prime Minister Tusk, who stated that ‘This situation brings us the closest we have been to open conflict since World War II.’

Diplomatic Implications

Poland has requested the invocation of NATO Article 4, which allows a NATO member to convene a meeting of allies to consult on issues threatening its security. Tusk emphasized that this is ‘only the beginning of deeper cooperation for the security of our skies and our border, which is NATO’s border.’

Security Measures

The Polish armed forces are conducting ongoing searches for possible crash sites and have urged civilians not to approach, touch, or move any objects they encounter, warning of potential hazards and dangerous materials. The incident led to temporary airspace closures over parts of Poland, affecting Chopin Airport and other facilities. By Wednesday, most airports had reopened, with only Lublin airport, near the Ukrainian border, remaining closed.

International Support

Sweden and Norway have pledged their full support to Poland, while NATO’s Baltic states have voiced alarm. Lithuania’s President warned that Moscow was ‘deliberately expanding its aggression,’ with Estonia’s Foreign Minister calling it ‘a stark reminder that Russia is not just a threat to Ukraine, but to all of Europe and NATO.’