US says Russian drones' incursion into Polish airspace unacceptable

ISTANBUL

Russian drone incursion into Poland's airspace this week was unacceptable, said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday, adding that even though the drones were "intentionally launched" by Moscow, it is still unknown whether they targeted Poland specifically.

“We think it’s an unacceptable and unfortunate and dangerous development,” Rubio told reporters before departing on a trip to Israel and Britain.

“No doubt about it: the drones were intentionally launched. The question is whether the drones were targeted to go into Poland specifically," he added.

On Friday, NATO revealed plans to strengthen the defense of its eastern front following an incident in which Poland shot down drones that entered its airspace — marking the first confirmed instance of a NATO member engaging militarily during Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Rubio said that if it is determined the drones were intended to target Poland, “if the evidence leads us there, then obviously that’ll be a highly escalatory move.”

“There are a number of other possibilities as well, but I think we’d like to have all the facts and consult with our allies before we make specific determinations,” he further stated.

On Wednesday, 19 Russian drones crossed into Polish airspace in the largest violation since Moscow launched its full-scale war against Ukraine.

Several drones were intercepted by NATO defenses, prompting emergency consultations in Warsaw and a strong response from allies.

NATO later unveiled Eastern Sentry, a new initiative to reinforce defenses along its eastern flank.