Multiple Russian “Shahed” drones were shot down by the Polish army after they breached its airspace. The incident triggered a sharp military response from
Poland and NATO allies. In immediate response, Polish and allied aircraft were scrambled early Wednesday, and ground-based air defense systems were raised to their highest readiness level, according to Poland’s Operational Command. “Polish and allied aircraft are operating in our airspace, while ground-based air defence and radar reconnaissance systems have been brought to the highest state of readiness,” the command announced via X (formerly Twitter). Rzeszów Airport, a vital hub for Western military aid flowing into Ukraine, was shut down due to what officials described as “unplanned military activity.” Ukrainian media also reported that at least one drone was directly heading toward the city of Rzeszów, while others threatened the nearby city of Zamość. The Ukrainian Air Force was first to sound the alarm, reporting on Telegram that Russian drones had crossed into NATO-member Poland’s airspace. While unofficial sources claim at least three drones were shot down within minutes, the Polish Ministry of Defense and NATO have not yet confirmed the total number of drones or the reported interceptions.
US Lawmakers Respond: “Act of War”
The incursion drew immediate condemnation from US officials. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC) both characterized the event as a serious escalation.
“This is an act of war,” Wilson said. “We are grateful to NATO allies for their swift response to war criminal Putin’s continued unprovoked aggression against free and productive nations.”
If officially verified, the airspace breach would dramatically escalate the war beyond Ukraine’s borders, thrusting NATO into a direct military crisis with Russia.
