During a widespread Russian air offensive targeting western Ukraine on the night of September 10, 2025, Poland scrambled its own and NATO air defenses after multiple drone-type objects crossed into its airspace.
Authorities identified that over ten such objects entered nationally monitored air zones—particularly over the Podlaskie, Mazowieckie, and Lublin regions—and took action to neutralize those deemed threatening .
Polish forces successfully shot down several drones. Recovery operations are underway to locate debris, and civilians have been asked to remain indoors for their safety .
This marks the first instance since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 that a NATO member has directly engaged and destroyed Russian-operated aerial vehicles within its own airspace.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the incident as an act of aggression, stressing the real danger it posed to citizens.
He immediately convened an emergency government meeting and remains in continuous contact with NATO leadership to coordinate a response .
In response to the threats, several major airports—including Warsaw’s Chopin Airport and key regional hubs—were temporarily shut down, causing delays and rerouting of flights . No casualties have been reported so far .
Ukrainian President Zelensky described the incident as an extremely dangerous precedent for Europe, noting the calculated nature of the intrusion .
NATO, EU, and U.S. officials have condemned the violation, with lawmakers urging stronger defensive postures and increased penalties against Russia .