Poland expresses dissatisfaction and asks allies for support against Russia

Activation of NATO Article 4 after the incident in Poland

After the violation of Polish airspace by Russian drones, NATO activated Article 4, which implies urgent consultations with alliance partners. Such discussions are aimed at assessing the threat and possible joint actions in response to the situation.

Article 4 is less aggressive compared to Article 5. It only involves diplomatic consultations and does not require member countries to take military measures. Since 1949, Article 4 has been used only seven times, with the last application occurring in 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine.

At the moment, NATO does not consider the drone incident as a military attack. A specialist in the alliance told Reuters that Poland has no information about a deliberate violation of its airspace. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, in particular, emphasizes the lack of confirmation of such a version.

Opinions of Western leaders

Meanwhile, high-ranking Western officials have already declared Russian aggressive action. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, speaking to Bundestag deputies, noted that “there is no reason to believe that this was a mistake.” According to him, the drones were directed with a specific purpose and did not require passing through Poland for their actions in Ukraine.

In addition, Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, called the incident “the most serious violation of European airspace by Russia” since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine. Kallas called for strengthening support for Kyiv and increasing defense spending in Europe.

Calls for actions and tough measures

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in turn, emphasized the need to tighten sanctions against Moscow. She noted that Putin’s actions require a clear response, adding that pressure on Russia should be increased to achieve peace negotiations.

Also, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed “deep concern” about the “flagrant violation” of Polish and NATO airspace by Russian drones.

Reaction of countries to the incident

Even Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban condemned the raid. He argued that “life in wartime is full of risks,” adding that such behavior should be stopped and support for President Trump’s efforts to establish peace should be given.

In response to these events, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk noted that he highly values the support from other countries, but emphasized that support alone is not enough. He warned of the need to increase the level of military assistance from NATO allies.

In addition, Tusk stated that on September 10, an intrusion of 19 objects was recorded in Polish airspace, which he called a “large-scale provocation” by Russia.