Poland Deploys Aircraft Over Russian Drone Threat

Poland and its NATO allies deployed aircraft in a preventive operation in Polish airspace due to the threat of drone strikes in neighboring Ukraine. This action followed multiple Russian drones crossing into Poland on Wednesday, which NATO fighter jets shot down. The incident led to the closure of Lublin Airport for approximately two hours. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed the operations, emphasizing the preventive nature of these actions to secure Poland's airspace and protect its citizens. Russia denied targeting Poland, while its ally Belarus claimed the drones went astray due to jamming. European leaders, however, view these incursions as deliberate provocations by Russia, underscoring ongoing concerns about the expansion of Russia's war in Ukraine. Separately, Romania also deployed F-16 jets to intercept a drone in its airspace, indicating broader regional security challenges.