Belarusian helicopters crossed Poland border: expert explains whether Warsaw could take them down

When asked whether Poland could shoot down the Belarusian helicopters, Musiienko replied that it would be unlikely.

"Objectively speaking, no. Especially considering they were flying at a low altitude and were difficult to detect. Although the Polish side was aware of military exercises in Belarus. It is surprising that the border was not under maximum protection, taking into account the presence of thousands of Wagnerists," the expert said.

Musiienko further explained that there was no need to respond with the firepower to the actions of the Belarusian "breakers".

"But it should be understood that next time, the helicopters may fly further. Polish authorities may face a new challenge," he added.

Meanwhile, another expert, Kovalenko, is convinced that Poland would not dare to shoot down helicopters, as the countries are not in a state of war. In a "peaceful" scenario, the priority is to establish communication with the crew, report the violation, and warn about possible use of force if the helicopter does not leave the airspace.

"You can't shoot immediately... Only when countries are at war can decisions be made on the ground to destroy an enemy object without any orders from authorities. In this case, everything was different," he concluded.

Belarusian helicopters crossed Poland border

On August 1, residents of the Polish village of Bialowieza reported that two Belarusian military helicopters, Mi-24 and Mi-8, flew over their houses. However, the Polish authorities initially denied any border violation.

Later on the same day, the Polish Ministry of Defense confirmed the airspace violation by two Belarusian helicopters. Poland informed NATO about the incident.

Today, it was revealed that the helicopters were guarding Alexander Lukashenko. The dictator was at the Viskuli residence, located 7.5 km from the border.