European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday urged tougher sanctions against Russia after Poland reported multiple drone violations of its airspace.
“Just today we have seen a reckless and unprecedented violation of Poland and Europe’s airspace by more than 10 Russian Shahid drones,” von der Leyen said. “Europe stands in full solidarity with Poland. Putin’s message is clear, and our response must be clear too. We need more pressure on Russia to come to the negotiation table. We need more sanctions. We are now working on the 19th package in coordination with partners.”
Poland’s Armed Forces described the incident as an “unprecedented violation” and said NATO and national air defences were activated. Several airports were temporarily shut down.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk told parliament that Poland faced its “closest risk of conflict since World War II,” citing 19 drone incursions, with three or four intercepted by Polish and NATO forces. He added that Warsaw had requested consultations under NATO’s Article 4, which allows members to raise security concerns with the alliance.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said available indications suggested the incursions were deliberate. Moscow had not commented as of press time.
