Yesterday at 20:05
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated on Wednesday that, for the first time, Russian drones were shot down over the territory of a NATO country last night; however, he emphasized that there is no reason for panic.
Tusk’s statement was reported by RMF 24.
He spoke before a special government session, noting that the Russian drones posing a direct threat were intercepted.
“This is the first time Russian drones have been shot down over NATO territory. All our allies are taking the situation very seriously,” said the Polish Prime Minister.
He clarified that the closure of four Polish airports was not caused by an imminent threat but was a necessary measure “due to operational needs of the pilots.”
Tusk also mentioned that searches for fragments of the downed drones are ongoing and reassured that the prepared plans worked, likely preventing a “large-scale provocation.”
“The situation is serious. No one can doubt that we must prepare for various scenarios. The first test has been passed. The plans prepared for such cases are functioning,” he said.
Tusk insisted, however, that “there is no reason for panic.”
“Life will continue normally. We will keep citizens informed about all developments. There is no need to introduce restrictions that would complicate the daily lives of citizens,” he added.
He emphasized that he is in constant contact with the top military command and President Karol Nawrocki.
“We have been discussing and assessing the consequences of these dramatic events for many hours. We are also evaluating future needs,” he said.
The Polish Prime Minister also called on politicians, journalists, and commentators to remain vigilant against potential Russian disinformation attempts.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that at least eight strike drones were aimed toward Poland last night — he expects Russia to face consequences for its malicious actions.
EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas described the Russian drone strike on Poland as a deliberate and the most serious violation of EU member state airspace by Russia.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called on the West to decide on using neighboring countries’ air defense systems to shoot down targets while they are still over Ukraine.
