US president Donald Trump has suggested that Russia’s incursion into Polish airspace “could have been a mistake”.
Polish air defences and Nato aircraft sprung into action on Wednesday after 19 objects intruded Polish airspace including drones entering from Belarus, said prime minister Donald Tusk. There have been no injury reports and Moscow has so far denied responsibility for the incident.
"I’m not happy about anything to do with the whole situation, but hopefully that’s going to come to an end," Trump told reporters before boarding Marine One.
The United Nations (UN) Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting after Russian drones entered Polish air space.
Representatives from member countries will meet at Poland’s request to discuss the unprecedented incursion into Nato territory, which took place on Wednesday morning.
Trump reacted by taking to Truth Social, writing: "What’s with Russia violating Poland’s airspace with drones? Here we go!"
As European and Nato countries rally to Poland’s defence, the US has vowed that it will help defend Nato territory following the incursion.
The US would defend “every inch of Nato territory”, Washington’s ambassador to Nato Matthew Whitaker said.
Key Points
- Zelensky says Russia testing limits of Nato alliance and humiliating Poland
- Trump says ‘here we go’ after Russia violates Polish airspace
- Russia may have been preparing incursion into Poland since summer, says think tank
- Trump should not cut off Russia economically, says Vance
- Watch: Russia's drone incursion on Poland was deliberate, says Zelensky
NATO Articles 4 and 5 explained after Russian drones shot down over Poland
04:00 , Rebecca Whittaker
NATO Articles 4 and 5 explained after Russian drones shot down over Poland
Foreign secretary Yvette Cooper to visit Kyiv as £142m aid boost announced
03:58 , Arpan RaiForeign secretary Yvette Cooper is due to travel to Kyiv today in her first overseas visit since being appointed in the role.
The minister will be reaffirming Britain's commitment to Ukraine with a £142m ($192.75m) winter support aid boost.
Cooper is due to meet president Volodymyr Zelensky and senior Ukrainian officials, to whom she will reaffirm Britain's commitment to Ukraine's defence against Russian aggression, the government said.
"Ukraine's security is crucial to the UK's security," Cooper said in a statement.
The extra funding package, part of a previously pledged aid programme launched in June, includes £100m in humanitarian assistance for frontline communities and £42m to repair and protect critical energy systems targeted by Russian strikes.
Her visit comes amid heightened tensions following an incursion of Russian drones into Nato airspace in Poland.
Ukrainian drones heading to Moscow downed, says mayor
03:49 , Arpan RaiRussian anti-aircraft units destroyed or downed nine Ukrainian drones headed for Moscow today, the capital's mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, said.
Sobyanin said specialist teams were examining fragments of the drones where they had hit the ground.
The governor of Leningrad region, which surrounds Russia's second largest city, St Petersburg, said anti-aircraft measures were in effect to counter drones.
The measures were in effect for 100km (60 miles) around Pulkovo, St. Petersburg's airport, he wrote on Telegram. He said the number of enemy drones at issue was being clarified.
Watch: Russian Black Sea Fleet ship hit by Ukraine
03:00 , Rebecca WhittakerWatch: Trump pledges ‘vicious’ response in tribute to murdered Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska
02:00 , Rebecca WhittakerUkraine requests a new financing programme
01:00 , Rebecca WhittakerThe International Monetary Fund spokesperson Julie Kozack said the IMF is committed to working with Ukrainian authorities to shape a new lending program after the war-torn country filed a formal request earlier this week.
Ukraine is spending about 60 per cent of its total budget to fund its battle against Russia's invasion.
The country relies heavily on financial support from its Western allies to cover the cost of pensions, public sector wages and humanitarian spending.
Ukraine has received about $10.6 billion under its existing $15.6 billion Extended Fund Facility program, but budget experts say its needs are far greater given the ongoing battle against Russia's invasion in February 2022 and continued damage to critical infrastructure.
UK to produce drones to help Ukraine fight off Russian aerial attacks
Friday 12 September 2025 00:00 , Rebecca Whittaker
UK to mass produce drones to help Ukraine fight off Russian aerial attacks
Trump believes Russia's drone incursion in Poland could have been 'a mistake'
Thursday 11 September 2025 23:13 , Bryony GoochUS president Donald Trump on Thursday has said that Russia's drone incursion into Poland could have been a mistake.
"I’m not happy about anything to do with the whole situation, but hopefully that’s going to come to an end," Trump told reporters before boarding Marine One.
Trump subsequently added that he would condemn Russia “even for being near that line.”
“I don’t like it,” he continued. “I’m not happy about it.”
Russian drone in Polish airspace is 'an attempt to weaken NATO' says Polish Defence Minister
Thursday 11 September 2025 23:00 , Rebecca Whittaker"This Russian provocation, as the generals and our soldiers are well aware, was nothing more than an attempt to test our capabilities, our ability to respond," Polish President Karol Nawrocki told soldiers on Thursday.
It comes after Polish air defences and Nato aircraft sprung into action on Wednesday after 19 objects intruded Polish airspace including drones entering from Belarus, said Polish prime minister Donald Tusk. There have been no injury reports and Moscow has so far denied responsibility for the incident.
Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz told parliament on Thursday Poland's logistical support for Ukraine may have been a motivation for the incursions - most aid for Ukraine transits via Poland.
"This is an attempt to weaken NATO's and Poland's willingness to support Ukraine," he said.
WATCH: Russian Black Sea fleet ship damaged by Ukrainian strike
Thursday 11 September 2025 22:00 , Nicole Wootton-CanePoland prepares for Zapad military exercises close to border
Thursday 11 September 2025 21:30 , Nicole Wootton-CanePoland is bracing for joint military drills between Russia and Belarus that are set to take place close to its border from Friday.
The Zapad 2025 (West 2025) military exercises will aim to showcase the close links between Moscow and Minsk, as well as Russian military might amid its 3-year-old war in neighboring Ukraine.
Troops from both countries will simulate repelling an attack, including airstrikes and sabotage, according to official reports.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk has previously announced his country would close its border with Belarus from midnight on Thursday.
Even before the drone incursion, Tusk said Tuesday the Zapad exercises constituted "very aggressive" military maneuvers "very close" to his country's border, accompanied by "provocations" by Russia and Belarus.
Sweden pledges another $7.5 billion military support for Ukraine
Thursday 11 September 2025 21:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneSweden is budgeting another 70 billion crowns ($7.47 billion) for military support to Ukraine over the coming two years, Defence Minister Pal Jonson said on Thursday, adding the country also stood ready to lend further support Poland if needed.
Much of the spending would be allocated through purchases managed by Sweden's defence material agency, for instance of additional Archer artillery systems, a type already being used by Ukrainian troops in the war with Russia.
Jonson told a press conference that, following a suspected Russian drone incursion in Poland on Wednesday, Sweden stood in solidarity with Poland and was ready to contribute military assets to the country if needed.
"We have immediately been in contact with Poland's defence minister where we have said we are willing to make available resources if Poland identifies an interest in this," Jonson said, adding any such support would be coordinated within NATO.
"We are in full solidarity with Poland," he said.
🇸🇪🇺🇦Today Sweden presented UA support package 20, worth $836 million. It contains among other things, 18 new Archer systems, an extension of Sweden's long-term military aid to Ukraine with $3.6 billion yearly 2026-2027, and $900 million in yearly civil funding 2026-2028. (1/6)
— Pål Jonson (@PlJonson) September 11, 2025
RECAP: Where in Poland were Russian drones shot down?
Thursday 11 September 2025 20:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneMany of today’s headlines from Ukraine have focused on the fallout after Poland shot down a number of Russian drones in its airspace on Wednesday.
The UN Security Council announced on Thursday it had been asked by Poland to convene an emergency meeting over the incident, which was described as "the closest we have been to open conflict since World War Two”.
But where were the drones shot down and how many were there?
Alex Croft has the details...
Trump envoy reportedly in Kyiv after Polish airspace violations
Thursday 11 September 2025 20:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneUS envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg reportedly visited Kyiv on Thursday after Russia encroached on Poland’s airspace.
EU to keep 2028 Russian gas exit after talks with US energy chief
Thursday 11 September 2025 19:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe EU is sticking to its deadline to phase out Russian oil and gas imports by 2028, EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen said on Thursday.
After a meeting with US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, he said they were “driving” to cut all Russian oil and gas imports, adding the “biggest filler of that hole has been energy exports from the United States”.
The EU is negotiating legal proposals to completely phase out imports of Russian oil and gas by January 1, 2028, with a ban on short-term contracts kicking in from next year, but it also faces pressure from the United States to end Russian energy imports sooner.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Wednesday the EU was considering a faster phase-out of Russian fossil fuels as part of new sanctions against Moscow.
EU officials were in Washington earlier this week to discuss sanctions, but Jorgensen said that sanctions were not discussed during his meeting with Wright in Brussels on Thursday.
Jorgensen's focus was making sure EU countries and lawmakers approve the 2028 phase out as soon as possible, he said.
"This is a very, very ambitious plan," he said.
"If there are any other things that we can do, at the same time, that will also put pressure on Russia, I am of course very happy to do that," he said.
US President Donald Trump told European leaders last week to stop buying oil from Russia, a White House official said. But on Thursday, Jorgensen declined to comment on whether Wright had asked the EU to quit Russian gas and oil faster.
The EU's proposed phase out by 2028 is designed "to happen in a way that doesn't lead to increase in prices, and future supply problems", Jorgensen said - adding that this would require Europe to buy more US liquefied natural gas.
ICYMI: What we know about the Gerbera drones that caused chaos in Poland’s airspace
Thursday 11 September 2025 19:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneOn Wednesday morning, Poland shot down what it said was a “huge number” of Russian drones in its airspace.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk told parliament it was "the closest we have been to open conflict since World War Two”.
But what were the drones, and why were they there?
Max Hunder explains below...
What we know about the Gerbera drones that caused chaos in Poland’s airspace
Analysis: Why Russian drones over Poland are so dangerous for the world
Thursday 11 September 2025 18:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneAfter Russian drones were shot down in Polish airspace on Wednesday morning, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said it was "the closest we have been to open conflict since World War Two”.
Any military engagement on its own land is obviously bad news for Poland. But the incident has wider consequences for the rest of the world, writes world affairs editor Sam Kiley.
“The incursion into Polish airspace may be an accident, with the deep penetration of the drones possibly explained by a failure of their guidance systems,” he writes.
“But it is an accident that Russia clearly feels happy to risk, given the level of impunity for its actions.”
Why Russian drones over Poland are so dangerous for the world
WATCH: Zelensky says Russia's drone incursion was 'deliberate'
Thursday 11 September 2025 18:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneCzech foreign minister summons Russian ambassador over drones in Poland
Thursday 11 September 2025 17:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneCzech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky said on Thursday he decided to summon the Russian ambassador after the incursion of drones into Polish airspace on Wednesday.
"Russian drones in Poland are a pure provocation by the Kremlin. Czechia stands firmly with Poland. We will defend Alliance territory," Lipavsky said on social media platform X.
Allied unity and faster weapons production 'only path to real peace talks', Ukraine's defence minister says
Thursday 11 September 2025 16:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneUkraine’s Defence Minister has said the only path to “real peace talks” with Putin is through unity with allies and faster weapons production.
In an interview with Sky News, Denys Shmyhal said Russia’s incursion into Poland’s airspace on Wednesday was a “probe of Nato” and a “distraction from war crimes in Ukraine”.
russia isn’t stopping its war on Ukraine - it’s gearing for a wider one. The drones over Poland were a probe of NATO and a diversion from russia’s war crimes in Ukraine. On @SkyNews I laid out why allied unity and faster weapons production are the only path to real peace talks.… pic.twitter.com/DjFChBlx58
— Denys Shmyhal (@Denys_Shmyhal) September 11, 2025
Zelensky urges allies to rethink air defence after Poland drone intrusion
Thursday 11 September 2025 16:00 , Nicole Wootton-CanePresident Zelensky urged Ukraine’'s allies on Thursday to rethink their own air defence capabilities after incursions into Polish airspace by drones that Warsaw said were Russian.
Speaking in Kyiv beside visiting Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Zelensky said his country was "open and ready" to provide support for its allies' efforts.
Ukraine has fended off many airstrikes since Russia began its war, using an array of Ukrainian and foreign-supplied weapons ranging from old machine guns to advanced missiles.
Zelensky said countries such as Poland should explore similar multi-layered approaches as missile systems such as the US-made Patriot were too expensive to use against cheaper drones used by Russia.
"No one in the world has enough missiles to shoot down all different types of drones," Zelensky said.
He added that Ukraine, which is heavily dependent on Western long-range air defence systems but has developed a sophisticated domestic approach to repel Russian attacks, was in a position to provide guidance to its allies on such matters.
He said Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk had already agreed to send military representatives to Ukraine on the issue.
The Polish military representatives will undergo training on shooting down drones, a source familiar with the matter said on Thursday.
Pictured: Russian air strike on Donetsk hits residential buildings
Thursday 11 September 2025 15:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneA Russian air strike hit residential buildings in Kostiantynivka, in the Donetsk region on Wednesday.
Ryanair warns of years-long impact on European travel from Russian drones
Thursday 11 September 2025 15:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneRyanair boss Michael O'Leary has warned that the Russian war in Ukraine would cause travel disruption for European airlines for years to come, a day after Poland shot down suspected Russian drones in its airspace.
Speaking at the company's annual general meeting, Mr O'Leary said it would be an “ongoing issue” for all airlines and European citizens for “years”.
But he added the risk was one of disruption rather than safety risks.
Several Polish airports were temporarily closed on Wednesday as the country shot down Russian drones, before flights resumed hours later. There were knock-on effects on air-traffic control, causing flight delays across Europe.
On Wednesday, just 60% of Ryanair's flights were on time, compared to a normal rate of around 90%, he said.
Mr O'Leary said safety was Ryanair's priority, adding that he was confident European authorities would act swiftly to shut airspace and protect aircraft. The problem for airlines and passengers would be regular closures creating headaches as flights are delayed and schedules disrupted.
"There's a huge increase in NATO air activity over southern and eastern Poland, that constrains the availability of airspace for commercial travel," he said.
The impact of the incident, which marked the first time a member of NATO is known to have fired shots during the war, was discussed at a meeting of the company's board of directors on Wednesday, Mr O'Leary added.
Shares in Ryanair were up 2.4% by 1248 GMT, recovering ground from Wednesday when the Polish incident sent most European travel stocks lower.
Italy says new sanctions might be needed against Russia
Thursday 11 September 2025 14:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneItaly's foreign minister on Thursday told the upper house of parliament that new sanctions could be needed to force Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate an end to the conflict in Ukraine.
"It is essential to intensify pressure on Putin to bring him to the negotiating table. We must do this by using all the tools at our disposal to hinder the financing of his war machine. This includes new sanctions," Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said.
Previously, Moscow has said no amount of sanctions would make it change its stance in Ukraine.
The US must take part in Ukraine security setup, Finland's Orpo says
Thursday 11 September 2025 14:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe United States must take part in a security setup for Ukraine, Finland's Prime Minister Petteri Orpo told reporters on Thursday.
Trump envoy told Belarusian leader US wants to reopen its embassy in Minsk as 52 political prisoners released, Belta reports
Thursday 11 September 2025 13:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneJohn Coale, a representative of President Donald Trump, told Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday that the US wanted to reopen its embassy in Minsk and normalise ties between the two countries, the state Belta news agency reported.
The United States closed its embassy in Minsk in February 2022 after Russian President Vladimir Putin used Belarus as a launch pad to send tens of thousands of troops into neighbouring Ukraine.
Belarus on Thursday released 52 prisoners who were now on their way to Lithuania, a spokesperson for the US embassy in Vilnius said on Thursday, saying Coale had led a US delegation to Belarus.
WATCH: Russian Black Sea Fleet ship hit by Ukraine
Thursday 11 September 2025 13:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneUkrainian forces struck a Russian Black sea Fleet ship worth around $60 million, its defence intelligence agency said.
In a post on Telegram, they shared a video of the strike which targeted the ship’s navigation and communication equipment.
“As a result of the strike, the enemy ship's RER equipment was destroyed, and the ship was put out of action for expensive repairs,” they wrote.
“The armed struggle continues!”
Spain and Netherlands summon ambassadors over drone violation
Thursday 11 September 2025 12:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe Spanish and Dutch governments have each summoned the Russian ambassador to their respective countries after Russia’s drone violation on Wednesday.
Spain's Foreign Ministry has summoned the Russian Charge d'Affaires in Madrid to express official condemnation of "unacceptable" violation of Polish airspace by Russian drones earlier this week, the ministry said.
Speaking to Dutch news agency ANP, the government said it had also summoned Russia's ambassador to the Netherlands.
Russia says Polish comments on drone violation 'nothing new'
Thursday 11 September 2025 12:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneMoscow has dismissed Polish condemnation of its airspace violation on Wednesday as “nothing new”.
Declining to comment on the situation further, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said: “"There will be no new comment. Our Defence Ministry commented on this, and it offered consultations, if necessary," Peskov told reporters. "There is nothing to add.
"As for the rhetoric and statements that we hear from Warsaw, well, actually, there is nothing new there. This rhetoric has been characteristic of almost all European capitals lately. We see its continuation."
President of Finland visits Ukraine
Thursday 11 September 2025 11:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneFinnish President Alexander Stubb is in Ukraine on Thursday to meet President Zelensky.
A video posted on X by the Ukrainian leader shows the pair paying tribute to Ukraine’s fallen soldiers at the Wall of Remembrance in Kyiv.
Today, at the Wall of Remembrance in Kyiv, together with President of Finland @AlexStubb, we commemorated the Ukrainian defenders who gave their lives for Ukraine.
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) September 11, 2025
With gratitude and respect, we honor the memory of every fallen warrior. Eternal and bright remembrance to all… pic.twitter.com/qccng4Q6a4
Poland, Ukraine, and Lithuania join to condemn Russia over drone intrusion in Poland
Thursday 11 September 2025 11:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe leaders of Poland, Ukraine, and Lithuania issued a joint statement condemning Russia’s intrusion into Poland’s airspace as an “unprecedented provocation and an escalation of tension”.
In the statement, they called for partners to “urgently strengthen Ukraine’s air defence” and to “support Poland and Lithuania in their efforts to secure an eastern flank of Nato and the EU”.
"Only an adequate and strong response will prevent further escalation,” they added.
Polish PM pledges 'great modernisation programme' for military
Thursday 11 September 2025 10:30 , Nicole Wootton-CanePolish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has pledged a “great modernisation programme” for the country’s military a day after it shot down Russian drones in its airspace.
Addressing Polish troops at an air base in the central city of Lask, Mr Tusk said he would “do everything” to ensure military equipment promised by allies, including the US, are delivered.
"We will do everything to ensure that our allied obligations, which are so important from our point of view today, are fulfilled by our allies," Mr Tusk said.
"We hope that the Americans will meet the deadlines. We would like the first batch of the F-35s to reach you in May, and so that we can speak of our air power with increasing confidence from month to month, and from year to year. And that Poland is truly safe from the sky."
UN meeting will 'draw world's attention' to airspace violation, Poland's foreign minister says
Thursday 11 September 2025 10:00 , Nicole Wootton-CanePoland’s foreign minister has told local radio the country is “drawing the world’s attention” to the “unprecedented” violation of Polish airspace by calling for a UN Security Council meeting.
"(We are) drawing the world’s attention to this unprecedented Russian drone attack on a member of the UN, EU, and NATO," Radoslaw Sikorski said.
"I have appeared before the UN (Security) Council in the past, and it seems to me that our arguments have been convincing.”
Poland restricts air traffic along eastern border until December
Thursday 11 September 2025 09:30 , Nicole Wootton-CanePoland introduced restrictions to air traffic along its eastern borders with Belarus and Ukraine, the Armed Forces' Operational Command said on Thursday, amid increased tensions a day after multiple drone incursions into the NATO member's airspace.
"At the request of the Operational Command of the Branches of the Armed Forces ... air traffic restrictions will be introduced in the eastern part of Poland in the form of the restricted zone EP R129", Polish Air Navigation Agency said in a statement published late on Wednesday.
The restrictions came into force at 2200 GMT on Wednesday and apply until December 9, it said.
From sunrise to sunset flights in the restricted zone are banned, apart from manned aircraft operating in accordance with a flight plan with appropriate transponders and maintaining two-way communication with air authorities, the agency said.
The restrictions also make exception for military flights and some additional special-purpose flights and call signs.
"From sunset to sunrise there is a total ban on flights, with the exception of military aircraft... In the EP R129 zone, there is a 24-hour flight ban on civilian unmanned aircraft, the agency said.
Russia's Defence Ministry said on Wednesday that its drones had carried out a major attack on military facilities in western Ukraine, but it had not planned to hit any targets in Poland.
Baltic parliaments ask US congress to uphold military support
Thursday 11 September 2025 09:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneEstonian, Latvian and Lithuanian legislators said on Thursday they have asked the US Congress to reconsider planned military support cuts under the Baltic Security Initiative programme.
The White House confirmed earlier this week it would look to slash the $220 million programme, which provides defence funding to the countries.
But lawmakers in the US have blasted the move, accusing Trump of “turning his back on our longstanding NATO allies” and “stripping them of the resources needed to counter increasing Russian aggression”.
In a joint letter on Thursday, the three parliaments wrote: "We kindly ask you to support the funding of the Baltic Security Initiative in the fiscal year 2026 Defence Appropriations Bill and its authorisation in the National Defence Appropriation Act.”
Couple whose house destroyed after Russian drones shot down 'wondered if they were being bombed'
Thursday 11 September 2025 08:45 , Nicole Wootton-CaneA couple whose house was destroyed after Russian drones were shot down in Polish airspace on Wednesday have said they were scared they were “being bombed” when the incident happened.
Tomasz and Alicja Wesolowski said they ran outside and saw a plane overhead after their house was struck.
"I turned on the TV, and all the news was about this massive drone flight, and after a while, I heard a plane flying over... and suddenly something boomed, the light fell from the ceiling in the downstairs living room," Mr Wesolowski told Reuters in the eastern Polish village of Wyryki-Wola.
"I ran out into the yard, and I saw the whole roof in shreds, everything was destroyed."
UN Security Council to meet over Russia's violation of Polish airspace, Foreign Ministry says
Thursday 11 September 2025 08:25 , Nicole Wootton-CaneAt Poland's request, the UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting to address Russia's violation of Polish airspace, the Polish Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.
It comes after Poland shot down a number of Russian drones flying over its airspace on Wednesday.
UK to mass produce drones to help Ukraine fight off Russian aerial attacks
Thursday 11 September 2025 07:59 , Alex CroftThe UK will mass produce cutting-edge interceptor drones to help Ukraine fight off Russian aerial attacks.
The drones, designed by Ukraine with support from UK scientists and technicians, are highly effective in destroying the one-way attack aircraft Moscow continues to launch at Ukrainian cities, according to the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
It comes after Russian drones violating Polish airspace during overnight attacks on Ukraine were shot down by Poland and Nato.
Defence Secretary John Healey will detail the project, the first under a technology-sharing deal with Kyiv, at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) trade show in London on Thursday.
Read more:
UK to mass produce drones to help Ukraine fight off Russian aerial attacks
Russian drone incursion revealed Nato vulnerability - Merz
Thursday 11 September 2025 07:40 , Alex CroftAfter Russia’s incursion into Poland with several drones, Nato’s air defences did not work “as well as it should have”, German chancellor Friedrich Merz has said.
The incursion overnight on Wednesday was a deliberate provocation on Wednesday, he said - the latest in a series of provocations recorded in the last months.
"First of all, I would like to note that European air defence, Nato air defence, worked, but of course not as well as it should have in order to prevent such a large number of drones from entering Polish airspace early enough," Mr Merz said.
"We are and will remain determined to significantly increase the defence readiness and defence capabilities of the European part of Nato," he added.
Baltic states call for US to uphold military support
Thursday 11 September 2025 07:24 , Alex CroftEstonian, Latvian and Lithuanian legislators have asked the US Congress to uphold military support under the Baltic Security Initiative program, which the White House is due to propose to cut, Lithuania's opposition Homeland Union party said on Thursday.
It comes as fears grow over the growing threat of Russian aggression, following the incursion of a number of drones into Polish territory overnight into Wednesday.
Russia orders children to stay at home due to 'massive' Ukrainian drone attack
Thursday 11 September 2025 06:56 , Arpan RaiRussia's Belgorod region has ordered children to stay at home and closed shopping malls due to a "massive" Ukrainian drone attack, the regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said this morning.
Belgorod, bordering Ukraine, has been a frequent target of Ukrainian drone attacks since the February 2022 invasion by Moscow.
It is not immediately clear how many drones have targeted Belgorod.
Mapped: Where in Poland were Russian drones shot down?
Thursday 11 September 2025 06:53 , Arpan RaiPoland has accused Russia of sending several drones into its territory, with prime minister Donald Tusk saying the country is the closest it has been to armed conflict since the Second World War.
Polish air defences shot down at least three drones, marking the first time a Nato member has directly engaged Russia since the beginning of its war in Ukraine.
Local authorities in Wyryki, eastern Poland, said a drone or similar object had struck a residential building, but nobody was injured. Debris was also found in the nearby town of Wyhalew.
Police in the village of Czosnowka, in Poland’s eastern Lublin region, said they had found a damaged drone, while the District Prosecutor's Office in Zamosc, also in Lublin, said drone components had been discovered near a cemetery in the town of Czesniki.
In the central Lodz region, a drone was found in a field near the village of Mniszkow, Reuters reported. Debris was also found in Olesno, 400km from the Ukrainian border.
Alex Croft reports:
Trump says ‘here we go’ after Russia violates Polish airspace
Thursday 11 September 2025 06:07 , Arpan RaiUS president Donald Trump issued a statement on Truth Social following Russia’s incursion into Polish airspace.
Poland shot down suspected Russian drones in its airspace on Wednesday with the backing of aircraft from its Nato allies, the first time a member of the Western military alliance is known to have fired shots during Russia's war in Ukraine.
“What’s with Russia violating Poland’s airspace with drones? Here we go!,” he said.
Shortly after this post on Truth Social, Polish president Karol Nawrocki said he spoke to president Trump to “confirm allied unity” after Russia violated Polish airspace.
Zelensky says Russia testing limits of Nato alliance and humiliating Poland
Thursday 11 September 2025 05:47 , Arpan RaiVolodymyr Zelensky has said Russia is testing the limits and reactions of the Nato alliance by calculated Russian drone attacks.
“Almost two dozen drones entered Poland, and it seems that less than half of the total number came from Ukraine. This was a calculated Russian activity. And we all saw the result, how difficult it was to counter,” Zelensky said in his nightly address.
The Russians are testing the limits of what is possible, the Ukrainian war-time president warned. “Testing reactions. Watching closely how Nato armed forces act – what they can do and what they cannot do yet,” he said.
Zelensky also accused Russia of humiliating Poland.
“Joint Russian–Belarusian exercises have now begun on Belarusian territory. This may well be part of their ‘training plan’, so to speak. We also see a disinformation campaign targeting both Poland and Ukraine. We see how the Russians are trying to humiliate Poland,” he said.
Almost two dozen drones entered Poland, and it seems that less than half of the total number came from Ukraine. This was a calculated Russian activity. And we all saw the result, how difficult it was to counter.
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) September 10, 2025
Russia may have been preparing incursion into Poland since summer, says think tank
Thursday 11 September 2025 05:35 , Arpan RaiRussia is likely to have been working on an incursion of Polish airspace with a large number of drones since earlier this summer, a think tank has said.
“Russia may have been preparing for the September 9-10 incursion for months, further indicating that the incursion was not an accident or the result of Ukrainian EW interference,” the Institute for the Study of War said, citing the drones used – Gerbera decoy drones.
According to a Polish military official, at least some of the Russian drones in Polish airspace were Gerbera drones.
The Russian Gerbera drone is a decoy drone designed to mimic Shahed –and Geran-type drones in order to overwhelm Ukrainian air defences, the ISW said.
“Ukrainian electronic and radio warfare expert Serhiy ‘Flash’ Beskrestnov also reported that he has documented Russian Shahed-type drones with Polish SIM cards recently,” the ISW said.
It also pointed to an instance from July when the Ukrainian military had recovered Russian drones with Polish and Lithuanian SIM cards and that these SIM cards could indicate Russian preparations to test strike corridors in Poland and Lithuania.
Watch: Russia's drone incursion on Poland was deliberate, says Zelensky
Thursday 11 September 2025 05:04 , Arpan RaiTrump should not cut off Russia economically, says Vance
Thursday 11 September 2025 04:50 , Arpan RaiDonald Trump does not believe US should cut off Russia from the global economy as they have a “lot of oil” and “lot of gas”, vice president JD Vance has said.
Speaking to One America News Network, Vance said: "The president's been very open with the Europeans and the Russians that he doesn't see any reason why we should economically isolate Russia except for the continuation of the conflict.”
"Let's be honest, whether you like or dislike Russia, whether you agree or disagree with their underlying arguments for the conflict, the simple fact is they've got a lot of oil," Vance said, calling Russia a resource powerhouse.
"They've got a lot of gas. They've got a lot of mineral wealth."
Once a settlement is reached, Vance said Washington could have "a very productive economic relationship" with both Kyiv and Moscow.
Why Russian drones over Poland are so dangerous for the world
Thursday 11 September 2025 04:27 , Arpan RaiPoland called an emergency Nato council meeting after shooting down at least four Russian drones that entered its airspace in the most dangerous test of the alliance’s resolve in decades.
Polish prime minister Donald Tusk said that Poland was closer to war than at any time since the Second World War and his government described the drones as “an act of aggression that posed a real threat to the safety of our civilians”.
Russian drones deep into Polish airspace may be an accident, but it is a risk that Vladimir Putin is happy to take given the level of impunity Russia has faced for its actions, writes World Affairs Editor Sam Kiley:
Why Russian drones over Poland are so dangerous for the world
Why is Nato's Article 4 being discussed after Poland shot down Russian drones?
Thursday 11 September 2025 04:14 , Arpan RaiPolish prime minister Donald Tusk told the country’s parliament that the Russian drone incident came under Article 4 of the treaty that founded the alliance in 1949 in the aftermath of the Second World War.
Article 4, when raised by a Nato nation facing any threat, can put urgent matters on the agenda for an alliance meeting.
Article 4, the shortest of the Nato treaty's 14 articles, states that: "The Parties will consult together whenever, in the opinion of any of them, the territorial integrity, political independence or security of any of the Parties is threatened."
Bob Deen, an analyst at the Clingendael think tank in The Hague, said the article is designed to promote better coordination and understanding within the alliance on external threats.
“It gives all allies the opportunity to urgently put certain threats or developments on the agenda of the North Atlantic Council,” he said.
"Article 4 gets invoked relatively rarely but increasingly in recent years; Turkey alone invoked it five times between 2003-2020 in the context of Syria and Iraq," said Deen.
He pointed out that eight allies have invoked it in 2022 shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and Poland triggered it once in 2014 after Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea.
What is Nato and is Poland a member?
Thursday 11 September 2025 04:03 , Bryony Gooch.jpeg?width=1200&height=800&crop=1200:800)
UK to mass produce Ukrainian-designed interceptor drones
Thursday 11 September 2025 04:01 , Arpan RaiBritain has pledged to mass produce Ukrainian-designed interceptor drones to help Ukraine counter Russian missiles and one-way attack drones.
The joint project had a target to produce thousands of drones per month, which would each cost less than 10 per cent to make compared to the targets they were designed to intercept, the government said in a statement.
In June, prime minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky announced a defence co-production initiative.
The British government, which had previously committed to increasing drone deliveries to Ukraine tenfold by April 2026, has pledged £4.5bn ($6.10bn) in military support to Ukraine this year, its largest commitment to date.
Analysis: Why Russian drones over Poland are so dangerous for the world
Thursday 11 September 2025 03:00 , Bryony GoochWhy Russian drones over Poland are so dangerous for the world
Watch: Starmer condemns Russian drones flying over Poland
Thursday 11 September 2025 02:00 , Bryony GoochNATO Articles 4 and 5 explained after drones shot down by Poland
Thursday 11 September 2025 01:02 , Bryony GoochNATO Articles 4 and 5 explained after Russian drones shot down over Poland
Watch: Defence Secretary asks UK armed forces to bolster Nato’s air defence over Poland after Russian drones shot down
Thursday 11 September 2025 00:00 , Bryony GoochIn pictures: Polish police and military figures clear up debris from Russian attack
Wednesday 10 September 2025 23:00 , Bryony Gooch
Comment: Hitting Poland with drones is just the start – these countries will worry about what comes next
Wednesday 10 September 2025 22:00 , Bryony GoochThe Nato response to Russian drones targeting Poland must go beyond diplomatic disapproval – and result in real action, writes Keir Giles. Failure to do so will encourage Putin to test the West’s resolve in yet more countries.
Read more here:
Hitting Poland with drones is just the start – expect more tests from Putin
Macron says he and Trump discussed Russia and Middle East concerns over phone call
Wednesday 10 September 2025 21:53 , Bryony GoochFrench President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday said he spoke to U.S. President Donald Trump on a phone call and shared concerns about the situation in the Middle East in the aftermath of Israeli strikes in Qatar.
The two leaders also spoke about developments in Russia's "war of aggression against Ukraine," particularly following Russian drone incursions into Poland, Macron said in an X post.
"Close cooperation between Europeans and Americans is crucial on each of these fronts," Macron said.
Pictured: A damaged drone lies after falling in the eastern Polish village of Czosnowka
Wednesday 10 September 2025 21:20 , Bryony GoochPolish president speaks to Trump:
Wednesday 10 September 2025 21:05 , Bryony GoochPolish president Karol Nawrocki has spoken to President Trump to “confirm allied unity” after Russia violated Polish airspace.
He said: “Just a moment ago, I spoke by phone with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the repeated violation of Polish airspace by Russian drones, which occurred last night. The conversation is part of a series of consultations I am conducting with our allies. Today’s talks confirmed allied unity.”
Przed chwilą rozmawiałem telefonicznie z Prezydentem USA Donaldem Trumpem na temat wielokrotnego naruszenia polskiej przestrzeni powietrznej przez rosyjskie drony, do którego doszło dziś w nocy.
— Karol Nawrocki (@NawrockiKn) September 10, 2025
Rozmowa wpisuje się w szereg konsultacji prowadzonych przeze mnie z naszymi… pic.twitter.com/BuqwXuiWL0
The Independent View: Why Russian drones over Poland are so dangerous for the world
Wednesday 10 September 2025 21:00 , Bryony Gooch“The violation of Polish airspace by Russian drones is rightly described as having brought the Eastern European country closer to conflict than at any time since the Second World War. There can be no substitute for collective security – with or without Donald Trump.”
Read more here:
Ukraine offers Poland assistance with dealing with 'shaheds'
Wednesday 10 September 2025 20:40 , Bryony GoochUkrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has said he offered Polish prime minister Donald Tusk assistance following Russia’s incursion in Polish airspace.
He said he offered “assistance, training, and expertise in shooting down Russian drones, particularly ‘shaheds’.
“Donald and I agreed on appropriate cooperation at the military level. We will also coordinate with all NATO member states.”
Watch: Why Russian drones over Poland are so dangerous for the world
Wednesday 10 September 2025 20:20 , Bryony GoochPoland received offers of support for its air defence, PM says
Wednesday 10 September 2025 20:00 , Bryony GoochPoland has received offers of support for its air defence from its European allies, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said after talking to leaders of France, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, the Netherlands, Ukraine and NATO.
"In my conversations today... I received not only expressions of solidarity with Poland, but above all proposals for concrete support for the air defence of our country," Tusk wrote on X after Poland shot down suspected Russian drones in its airspace on Wednesday.
Poland shoots down Putin’s drones and warns it’s ‘closer to conflict than any time since World War 2’
Wednesday 10 September 2025 19:40 , Bryony GoochPoland has warned it is closer to conflict than at any point since World War 2 after after Russian drones entered its airspace in an unprecedented incursion into Nato territory.
Polish air defences were scrambled after 19 projectiles drones entered its airspace during a major attack on western Ukraine, prime minister Donald Tusk said.
It marks the first time a Nato country has fired any bullets in relation to Russia’s full-scale war in Ukraine since it began in 2022. Mr Tusk has invoked Article 4 of the Nato treaty, demanding consultation with its member states.
Read more here:
Poland shoots down Putin’s drones and warns it’s closest to conflict since WW2
Zelensky: We have to create an effective air shield over Europe
Wednesday 10 September 2025 19:20 , Bryony GoochUkrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday that an incursion into Poland by Russian drones meant Europe had to work on creating a joint air defence and an "effective air shield."
"We need to work on a joint system of air defence and create an effective air shield over Europe," Zelensky wrote on Telegram after speaking by telephone to Polish prime minister Donald Tusk, NATO secretary general Mark Rutte and other European leaders.
"Ukraine proposed this a long time ago. There are concrete decisions on this. We must react together to all current challenges and be prepared for potential threats to all Europeans in the future."
Starmer has spoken to leaders of Poland, Ukraine, Italy and Nato
Wednesday 10 September 2025 19:00 , Bryony GoochSir Keir Starmer has spoken with leaders of Ukraine, Poland, Italy and NATO to condemn Russia’s violation of Poland’s airspace.
A Downing Street spokesperson said: “The Prime Minister spoke to the leaders of Ukraine, Poland and Italy, as well as the NATO Secretary General this afternoon.
“The Prime Minister began by condemning the outrageous violation of Poland’s airspace. This highlighted Russia’s increased recklessness in recent weeks, including their attacks on the Cabinet of Ministers building, British Council and EU Delegation buildings in Kyiv, he added
“Russia’s ongoing aggression was unacceptable and continued to show why President Putin had no interest in peace, the Prime Minister added.
“The UK stood ready to support NATO and Poland to continue to defend the Alliance in the coming days and weeks, while also working with allies to step up support for Ukraine to ensure it had the capability and air defence it required, the Prime Minister said.
“The Secretary General updated on the meeting of the North Atlantic Council earlier today, and the leaders paid tribute to Poland’s swift response to this morning’s events.
“The leaders agreed to stay in close touch.”
Poland downs drones in its airspace, becoming first NATO member to fire during Ukraine war
Wednesday 10 September 2025 18:40 , Bryony GoochPoland shot down suspected Russian drones in its airspace on Wednesday with the backing of aircraft from its NATO allies, the first time a member of the Western military alliance is known to have fired shots during Russia's war in Ukraine.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk told parliament it was "the closest we have been to open conflict since World War Two", though he also said he had "no reason to believe we're on the brink of war".
NATO chief declares solidarity with Poland in new message
Wednesday 10 September 2025 18:20 , Bryony GoochNato secretary general Mark Rutte has shared a statement of solidarity with Poland following Russia’s violation of Polish airspace.
“NATO Allies stand in solidarity with Poland & denounce Russia’s reckless behaviour after the violation of Polish airspace by Russian drones.
“Allies are resolved to defend every inch of Allied territory. We'll closely monitor the situation, our air defences continually at the ready.”
NATO Allies stand in solidarity with Poland & denounce Russia’s reckless behaviour after the violation of Polish airspace by Russian drones. Allies are resolved to defend every inch of Allied territory. We'll closely monitor the situation, our air defences continually at the… pic.twitter.com/95ETFO5P5N
— Mark Rutte (@SecGenNATO) September 10, 2025
Russian Foreign Ministry dismisses Polish drone attack allegations as 'myths'
Wednesday 10 September 2025 18:00 , Bryony GoochRussia's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that the facts previously presented by the Russian Defence Ministry effectively debunk what it described as "myths" about Russian drones deliberately crossing into Polish territory.
Russia's Defence Ministry said earlier on Wednesday that its drones had carried out a major attack on military facilities in western Ukraine but stressed that there were no plans to hit any targets in Poland.
The ministry also expressed readiness to hold consultations with its Polish counterpart to address the issue. Russia's Foreign Ministry said it was prepared to take part in such talks.
Watch: Timelapse shows passenger flights diverting after Russian drones enter Polish airspace
Wednesday 10 September 2025 17:40 , Bryony GoochTrump: 'What’s with Russia violating Poland’s airspace with drones? Here we go!'
Wednesday 10 September 2025 17:20 , Bryony GoochUS president Donald Trump has issued a statement on Truth Social following Russia’s incursion into Polish airspace.
“What’s with Russia violating Poland’s airspace with drones? Here we go!”
Trump is set to speak to Poland’s president following the incident.
Merz: 'Nato is ready to defend' after Russian attack
Wednesday 10 September 2025 17:00 , Bryony GoochGerman chancellor Friedrich Merz has condemned Russia’s attack on Polish airspace with a statement on X.
“Russia has endangered human lives in a state that belongs to both NATO and the EU. This reckless approach fits into a long chain of provocations in the Baltic Sea region and along NATO's eastern flank,” he said.
“It is good that Poland, together with its NATO allies, was able to recognize and eliminate this danger in a timely manner.
“At Poland's request, the NATO Council has today discussed the Russian approach under Article 4 of the NATO Treaty. NATO is and remains ready to defend.”
Canadian prime minister calls Russian incursion with Polish airspace 'reckless and escalatory'
Wednesday 10 September 2025 16:40 , Bryony GoochCanadian prime minister Mark Carney on Wednesday condemned Russia's incursion of drones into Polish airspace as "reckless and escalatory" and said Ottawa was closely coordinating with its NATO allies.
Carney said in a statement that the incident showed the need to increase pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war on Ukraine.
"We will remain vigilant against Russia's attempts to widen and prolong the conflict with Ukraine. Putin is demonstrating once again his total disregard for the path of peace," he said.
Canada is one of Kyiv's most vocal defenders internationally and has committed to sending billions of dollars in financial and military aid.
Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said earlier that the incursion was "yet another horrendous example of Putin’s refusal to seek peace."
Russian drone incursion was deliberate, says Germany
Wednesday 10 September 2025 16:20 , Alex CroftThe incursion of Russian drones into Poland was an unacceptable, targeted provocation against Nato, German defence minister Boris Pistorius said on Wednesday, adding he believed it had been a deliberate act.
"There is no evidence whatsoever to suggest that these drones accidentally flew over Polish territory on this route," Mr Pistorius told reporters. "This means that we can assume that this was a deliberate action," he said.
Asked how this differed from an attack that could trigger Article 5 of the Nato treaty, he said it was an attack in that it had infringed Polish air space but not in a military sense that anything was destroyed or people killed, as far as he knew.
Mr Pistorius added Nato was united and had a clear but level-headed response. "We are focusing on strength and unity but will not let ourselves be provoked," he said.
Sir Keir Starmer shows support for Poland during PMQs
Wednesday 10 September 2025 12:45 , Nicole Wootton-CaneSir Keir Starmer has voiced his support to Poland during Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday afternoon.
"Last night, Russia launched drones into Poland in an unprecedented attack,” he told MPs.
"I've been in touch with the Polish Prime Minister this morning to make clear our support for Poland, and will stand firm in our support for Ukraine with our partners, and through our leadership of the coalition of the willing, we will continue to ramp up the pressure on Putin until there's a just and lasting peace."
Moscow claims Russian drones downed by Poland came from Ukraine
Wednesday 10 September 2025 12:23 , Alex CroftA Russian diplomat said on Wednesday that drones shot down by Poland in Polish airspace overnight had come from the direction of Ukraine, Russian state news agency RIA reported.
"We know one thing - these drones were flying from the direction of Ukraine," Russia's charge d'affaires in Warsaw, Andrei Ordash, was quoted as saying after leaving the Polish Foreign Ministry.
Poland said a large number of Russian drones had violated its airspace during the incident, and those that posed a direct threat had been shot down.
Villagers report seeing 'police and military everywhere'
Wednesday 10 September 2025 12:20 , Nicole Wootton-CaneReporters in Poland have been speaking to villagers in Krzywowierzba Kolonia who reported hearing explosions as Poland shot down Russian drones that entered their airspace on Wednesday morning.
"I heard something flying in the morning, so I went outside," village head Rafał Skorupski told Fakt.
"A moment later, there was such a noise that the children were frightened. My wife had to go to the dentist in Włodawa, but the road was blocked. There were police and military police everywhere.”
Drone incursion a matter for the defence ministry, says Kremlin
Wednesday 10 September 2025 12:09 , Alex CroftThe Kremlin on Wednesday declined to comment on Poland's statement that it had shot down Russian drones in Polish airspace, saying this was a matter for the defence ministry.
Poland said a large number of Russian drones had violated its airspace during the incident, and those that posed a direct threat had been shot down.
Rutte hails successful defence by Nato
Wednesday 10 September 2025 11:56 , Alex CroftNato secretary-general Mark Rutte has been speaking to reporters about Russia’s latest incursion into Polish territory.
He hailed what he described as a successful operation to protect Nato territory from the Russian threat, promising to defend every inch of Nato territory.
The move was “absolutely reckless”, he said, adding that Nato would continue to defence its territory, and calling on more investment to deter and defend from the Russian threat.
Starmer condemns 'extremely reckless' Russian violation of Nato airspace
Wednesday 10 September 2025 11:49 , Alex CroftSir Keir Starmer has hit out at Moscow for its “extremely reckless” violation of Polish and Nato airspace by Russian drones during an air attack on Ukraine.
"This morning's barbaric attack on Ukraine and the egregious and unprecedented violation of Polish and NATO airspace by Russian drones is deeply concerning," Sir Keir said.
"This was an extremely reckless move by Russia and only serves to remind us of (Russian) president (Vladimir) Putin's blatant disregard for peace," he said, adding that he had been in touch with Polish counterpart Donald Tusk on Wednesday to express British support for Poland.
British defence minister John Healey, who was hosting a meeting of the E5 grouping of European nations of Britain, Poland, France, Germany and Italy in London, condemned Russia's action at the start of that meeting.
"We will discuss this morning what additional support we can provide to Poland," Healey said.
