September 10 marked a potentially historic day: Russian kamikaze drones violated the airspace of Poland, a NATO member state. According to Polish media and authorities, debris from seven drones and a missile were found in Poland following a nighttime attack. Poland appealed to its NATO allies for consultations under Article 4 of the Alliance, and President Zelensky called the incident a dangerous precedent for all of Europe.
The drones entered Poland from Belarus, where Russian military presence has recently increased, including the construction of new bases and the training of thousands of soldiers near the Ukrainian border. This activity has raised concerns about possible further Russian aggression in the region.
The global response was measured. NATO stated it does not consider the incident an attack on a member state but has initiated formal consultations. Several Alliance countries, including Poland, the Netherlands, Italy, and Germany, participated in the response: F-16 and F-35 fighters, Patriot missile systems, and AWACS aviation were deployed. Not all drones were intercepted, but the NATO Secretary General praised the allies' swift reaction.
In Poland, the situation sparked public debate: some blame Ukraine, others blame Russia or the Polish authorities. Analysts note that Russian information propaganda has some influence on Polish public opinion.
The incident has already impacted the political agenda in Europe and the US. Trump and the White House assure they are closely monitoring the situation. Poland is asking allies for more support, while Ukraine offers its experience in countering drones. The EU is discussing allocating funds to purchase weapons for Ukraine, although Hungary is blocking the decision.
Amid these developments, the security of logistics for supplying weapons to Ukraine through Poland remains crucial, as does the role of Poland and the Baltic States in supporting Ukraine and countering Russian aggression.
Other significant news: in the US, a case has been initiated over the killing of Ukrainian Irina Zarutska, which has resonated in politics and society.
