NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte made a firm message in consequence to a breach of Polish airspace by Russian drones reported by the authorities in Warsaw.
– Our air defence systems were launched and effectively defended NATO's territory – according to its intent – he stressed, pointing to the participation of many associate States, including Poland, the Netherlands, Italy and Germany. – I appreciate the pilots and everyone who contributed to this fast and efficient reaction.
After the incident, at the request of Poland, a gathering of the North Atlantic Council was held under Article 4 of the Washington Treaty.
– The allies expressed solidarity with Poland and condemned the irresponsible actions of Russia –
said Rutte. This violation was not an isolated case.
Rutte did not avoid strong words to the Kremlin.
– My message to Putin is clear: end the war in Ukraine. halt the escalation that hits civilians and civilian infrastructure. halt violating the airspace of allied states.
He besides added:
– We're on alert. We're ready. And we will defend all inch of NATO territory.
During his speech in the Sejm, Prime Minister Donald Tusk provided information on 19 confirmed crossings of Polish airspace. As he pointed out, these data are not definitive, and the situation is dynamic. 3 drones were shot down as part of the consequence from the armed forces, and, as the Prime Minister added, most likely the 4th object.
“The last of the drones was destroyed at 6:45,” said Tusk.
He besides stressed that the number of neutralized unmanned workers could increase with the analysis of further operational data. The Prime Minister's message fits into the expanding tension around the safety of the borders of Poland and the airspace over the east flank of NATO.
In connection with these events, Donald Tusk reported that in agreement with president Andrzej Duda it was decided to launch Article 4 of the North Atlantic Treaty. This is simply a formal consultation mechanics for situations where 1 associate State feels threatened. The Prime Minister made it clear that symbolic gestures were no longer sufficient.
"Article 4 is only an introduction to an in-depth cooperation for the safety of our heaven and our border, which is the border of NATO and the words here are in no case enough," he said.
The Head of Government stressed that Poland expects specifics from allies. He announced that, in both the consultation of Article 4 and the political contacts with the associate States, Warsaw will request real support – not only diplomatic, but besides military and technological.
– We will anticipate much more support during the consultation, both under Article 4 and political consultations between the capitals," added the Prime Minister.
