Polish authorities confirmed that military forces shot down Russian drones that breached the country’s airspace during an attack in western Ukraine, according to statements from senior officials. Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk said an operation was underway to neutralize objects that had crossed the border of the Republic of Poland. He emphasized that the President and Prime Minister had been notified, urging citizens to follow updates from the Polish Army and Police.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that the Operational Commander of the Armed Forces Branches reported drones entering Polish airspace and posing a potential threat. “The operation is ongoing,” he said. The Polish Operational Command of the Armed Forces linked the drone incursion to Russian attacks on Ukraine, describing it as an “unprecedented violation” of Polish territory. “This is an act of aggression that posed a real threat to our citizens,” the command stated on X, adding that defensive measures were taken to neutralize the drones.
Some drones were reportedly shot down, with efforts focused on locating crash sites. The command affirmed that Polish and allied forces remained prepared for further actions. Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz reiterated the need for public compliance with military announcements, noting that NATO coordination was ongoing. Territorial Defense Forces were deployed for ground searches, and authorities urged citizens to avoid approaching drone fragments and instead notify police.
U.S. officials responded to the incident, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirming he had been briefed on the reports. Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) accused Russia of targeting Poland “less than a week after President Trump hosted” Polish President Karol Nawrocki at the White House, calling it an act of war. He criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin and called for sanctions against Moscow and increased military support for Ukraine. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) described the situation as “incredibly serious” if Russian aerial assets were operating over a NATO member state.
