Poland has shot down drones over its territory after repeated violations of its airspace during a Russian aerial attack on neighbouring Ukraine.

The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces confirmed that weapons had been used, and operations were underway to locate the downed targets.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that an operation was underway related to multiple violations of Polish airspace, emphasizing that the military used armaments against the objects.

The military mobilization in Poland led to the closure of four airports, including Warsaw’s main Chopin airport, due to military activity.

The US Federal Aviation Administration’s website listed the closed airports as Rzeszow–Jasionka airport, Warsaw Modlin airport, and Lublin airport.

Chopin Airport later confirmed that airspace over parts of Poland had been temporarily closed due to state services and military actions to ensure safety. Disrupted passengers were advised to monitor airlines for updates and official government announcements.

The incident occurred after Ukraine’s Air Force reported that Russian drones had entered Polish airspace, posing a threat to the city of Zamosc.

Although the air force later removed the statement from its Telegram messaging app, most of Ukraine, including western regions bordering Poland, were under air raid alerts for several hours overnight.

Poland had previously announced plans to close its border with Belarus due to Russian-led military exercises scheduled to take place in Belarus.

The “Zapad-2025” (West-2025) drills, set to be held in western Russia and Belarus from Friday, have raised security concerns in neighboring NATO member states, including Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia.

Polish Minister of Interior Marcin Kierwinski stated that the border closure would only be reopened when the government was sure there was no more threat to Polish citizens.

The Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Polish charge d’affaires to complain about the border closure, describing it as “an abuse of its geographical position.”

Lithuania’s border guard announced that the protection of its border with Belarus and Russia would be strengthened due to the exercises.

The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with the international community closely monitoring the situation.

António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, has emphasized the need for restraint and diplomacy in such conflicts.

In related news, Russia’s aerial attacks on Ukraine have resulted in significant damage and loss of life. The conflict has been ongoing for several years, with both sides suffering heavy losses. The international community continues to urge restraint and a return to diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.

The situation in Poland and Ukraine remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation. As the international community continues to monitor the situation, it is essential to prioritize diplomacy and restraint to prevent further conflict and promote peace in the region.