Poland says Russia repeatedly violated its airspace while striking Ukraine

By Yasin Gungor

ISTANBUL (AA) - Poland said Wednesday that drone-type objects repeatedly violated its airspace during Russian strikes on Ukrainian targets, prompting military operations to identify and neutralize the threats.

"During today's attack by the Russian Federation carrying out strikes on targets located on Ukrainian territory, our airspace was repeatedly violated by drone-type objects," the Polish Armed Forces Operational Command said on the US social media company X’s platform.

Polish forces used weapons against the intruding objects and are conducting operations to locate downed aircraft, according to the statement.

Authorities ordered residents in the most threatened regions -- Podlaskie, Mazowieckie and Lubelskie provinces -- to remain at home while military operations continue.

"We emphasize that military operations are ongoing and we appeal for people to stay at home," it said.

Poland also closed major airports including Warsaw International, Modlin, Lublin and Rzeszow-Jasionka due to the security situation.

US Sen. Dick Durbin previously warned that "repeated violations of NATO airspace by Russian drones are fair warning that (President) Vladimir Putin is testing our resolve to protect Poland and the Baltic nations."

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk had vowed "decisive action" against airspace violations, stating Friday that Poland would "react very decisively to such provocations."