Warsaw, Poland, 12 September (H.S.): In response to a significant Russian drone incursion into Polish airspace early Wednesday, several NATO member states are bolstering their military presence and air defenses along the alliance’s eastern flank. This unprecedented breach, which saw multiple Russian drones shot down or crash within eastern Poland, has escalated regional tensions to heights not seen since World War Two.
Poland has formally requested a United Nations Security Council session slated for Friday to address the incident, which it describes as a deliberate and large-scale provocation by Russia. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk condemned the incursion, calling it an attempt to test NATO’s capabilities, a sentiment echoed by leaders across Europe, including Poland’s President Karol Nawrocki.
In response, the Netherlands will deploy air defense systems, artillery, and 300 troops, while the Czech Republic plans to send helicopters and 100 soldiers. Germany announced it would intensify its engagement along NATO’s eastern border and expand air policing over Poland, and France will contribute three Rafale fighter jets to safeguard Polish airspace. British aircraft are also expected to join the defensive effort.
Moreover, Lithuania will receive a German brigade and enhanced warnings about Russian attacks that might affect the region. Poland, tightening security further, will implement restrictions on drones and small air traffic along its eastern borders with Belarus and Ukraine, while Latvia has closed its eastern airspace for a week.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered to assist Western military experts by sharing guidance on countering Russian aerial threats and called for a unified European air defense system in response to Russia’s aggressive tactics.
The incident occurs just as Belarus and Russia prepare to commence large-scale joint military exercises, Zapad 2025, prompting Poland to close its border with Belarus for national security concerns. Russia has criticized this closure, warning of economic and mobility consequences.
U.S. President Donald Trump described the drone incursion as potentially accidental but expressed hope for a resolution to the broader conflict. NATO’s top military commander acknowledged uncertainty regarding the intent behind the drone flights but stressed the importance of readiness amid rising eastern European anxieties.
This latest episode marks the most severe Russian violation of NATO airspace since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, underscoring escalating geopolitical tensions on the continent.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
