Poland on high alert after suspected Russian drones enter airspace
What's the story
Poland's military announced early Wednesday that it had shot down drones that breached its airspace during a Russian strike on Ukraine. "This is an act of aggression that posed a real threat to the safety of our citizens," Poland's Operation Command said. It said military action is still ongoing, and its soldiers are "fully prepared for immediate response."
Military response
Poland deploys aircraft, defense systems
The operational command also announced that it has deployed Polish and allied aircraft. "Polish and allied aircraft are operating in our airspace, while ground-based air defense and radar reconnaissance systems have been brought to the highest state of readiness," the command said. Poland is a member of NATO, a transatlantic defense pact that includes the US and operates on the principle that an attack on one is an attack on all.
International support
US deploys F-35 fighter jets to Poland
The United States has also deployed F-35 fighter jets to patrol the Polish skies in response to the reported drone incursions. A FlightRadar map showed a T-059 hovering above Rzeszów, further raising concerns about possible airspace violations, according to Reuters. However, these reports are yet to be confirmed by official sources.
Border closure
Poland to shut all crossings with Belarus
In light of the situation, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced plans to shut down all crossings with Belarus from midnight on Thursday. He said the maneuvers near the Polish border represent "very aggressive" military doctrine and demand immediate defensive action. Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski said the closure would remain until Warsaw is sure there is "no more threat to Polish citizens."
Airports
4 airports closed
Earlier, it was reported that four airports in Poland, including the Chopin airport in Warsaw, had been closed due to military activities. According to notices posted on the US Federal Aviation Administration's website, the three other airports closed are Rzeszow-Jasionka, Warsaw Modlin, and Lublin. Chopin Airport later stated in a social media post that airspace over parts of Poland, including the airport, had been temporarily closed due to "actions of state services and the military to ensure safety."