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Macron sends Rafale fighters to Poland after Russian drone attack

Macron sends Rafale fighters to Poland after Russian drone attack Photo: Emmanuel Macron, President of France (Getty Images)
Author: Daryna Vialko

French President Emmanuel Macron has decided to assist Poland with air defense. French Rafale fighter jets have been deployed to the country, according to the French leader.

"Following the Russian drone incursions into Poland, I have decided to deploy three Rafale fighter jets to contribute to the protection of Polish airspace and of NATO’s Eastern Flank together with our Allies," Macron said.

The French leader clarified that he discussed the matter with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is also involved in defending the eastern flank.

"The security of the European continent is our top priority. We will not yield to Russia’s growing intimidation," the President emphasized.

Drone attack on Poland

On the night of September 10, Russian forces launched several dozen drones at Poland. NATO allies assisted in shooting down the drones, deploying F-35 and F-16 fighter jets.

At the same time, media reports suggested that one of the targets could have been a NATO base in Poland used to send military aid to Ukraine.

In response to the attack, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed a new European program to develop interceptor drones, noting that shooting down Russian drones with F-35 missiles is too costly.