Key facts
- Poland's military concluded an air operation conducted due to Russian strikes on Ukraine.
- No violations of Polish airspace were recorded during the operation.
- Fighter jets were scrambled as a preventive measure.
- Several airports, including Warsaw-Chopin, were temporarily closed.
- Weapons were used against unidentified flying objects.
- The operation involved reconnaissance aircraft and allied support.
Poland's military has concluded an air operation that was initiated as a preventive measure following Russian strikes on Ukraine. The Polish Armed Forces announced that no violations of Polish airspace were recorded during the operation.
Earlier in the night, Poland, a member of NATO and the European Union, scrambled fighter jets in response to Russia's attack on Ukraine. This led to the temporary closure of four airports, including the capital's international hub in Warsaw, due to "drone-like objects" entering the airspace. Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed that weapons had been used against these objects, describing the situation as serious and emphasizing the need for preparation for various scenarios. The government stated that procedures were followed and the threat was eliminated.
The operation involved reconnaissance aircraft and received support from NATO allies, including Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, and Norway, who reinforced the protection of Polish airspace with Patriot systems. Airports in Rzeszów and Lublin were temporarily closed to ensure freedom of movement for military aircraft, but have since reopened. The search for downed aircraft is ongoing, and Polish forces continue to monitor the situation in Ukraine.