WARSAW – Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk reported an unprecedented violation of Polish airspace overnight, as a “huge number” of Russian drones flew across the country in what Warsaw called an “act of aggression.”

According to official statements, more than 10 drone-type objects breached Polish airspace during the night of Sept 9-10, 2025. Those that posed “a direct threat” were reportedly shot down. The incursions came amid renewed missile and drone strikes by Russia on parts of Ukraine.

The Prime Minister said Poland’s air defences, together with NATO forces, mobilised aircraft and other systems to respond to the incursions. The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces declared its units on the highest alert.

Several airports in eastern Poland were affected by the disruptions. Warsaw’s Chopin Airport, along with airports in Modlin, Rzeszów-Jasionka, and Lublin, temporarily suspended or restricted operations while the threat was assessed. Some flights were diverted, and parts of airspace remained closed until later in the morning.

Local authorities also reported debris from one drone in the village of Czosnówka (in the eastern region), after a drone was shot down. No injuries have been reported so far.

Poland has summoned NATO consultations under Article 4 of the Alliance treaty, which allows members to bring threats to the security of any member to the North Atlantic Council. The Polish government emphasised that these violations are not isolated incidents but part of a growing pattern of threats stemming from the Russian-Ukraine conflict.

Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski accused Russia of deliberately targeting Polish airspace rather than the drone crossings being accidental. He said that the assessment by Polish and NATO forces is that the drones “did not veer off course.”

This incident marks the first time a NATO member has engaged Russian aerial assets directly over its territory since the full-scale war in Ukraine began. Many are viewing this as a serious escalation in regional tensions.

Poland’s military and government have called for solidarity from EU and NATO partners, stressing that robust shared air-defense arrangements and readiness are essential. European Commission officials have expressed support for Poland and condemned the incursions.

Analysts suggest that these drone incursions could be aimed at testing Poland’s air defense responsiveness, probing vulnerabilities, or sending a broader political message. The Polish government has indicated steps to strengthen detection and response capabilities, including possible deployment of enhanced radar, anti-drone systems, and increased coordination with allied air forces.

As of the latest reports, while flight operations have gradually resumed in affected areas, Poland remains on high alert. Citizens are being urged to stay informed through official channels and avoid approaching any debris or unidentified objects that land.