Tusk explains conditions for destroying Russian jets violating Polish skies
Photo: Donald Tusk (Getty Images)
Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk stated that Poland will not hesitate in case of violation of its airspace. Objects that pose a threat and enter the territory of Poland will be shot down without discussion, according to Reuters.
The position of Warsaw and the alliance
"We will take the decision to shoot down flying objects when they violate our territory and fly over Poland - there is absolutely no discussion about that," Tusk said.
However, he noted that in less unambiguous cases, additional caution is needed.
"When we're dealing with situations that aren't entirely clear, such as the recent flight of Russian fighter jets over the Petrobaltic platform - but without any violation, because these aren't our territorial waters - you really need to think twice before deciding on actions that could trigger a very acute phase of conflict," the Prime Minister explained.
Support of allies
Tusk emphasized that Poland must be sure of the support of allies. "I also need to be absolutely certain... that all allies will treat this in exactly the same way as we do," he added.
According to the Prime Minister, joint actions of NATO countries are the key to preventing further escalation. Poland claims that the alliance will act with a unified position in response to the provocations of Moscow.
Violation of airspace
Estonia reported the violation of its airspace by three Russian fighters on September 19. In Tallinn, it was stated that this increases alarm among NATO countries and demonstrates a check of the alliance's readiness.
The UN Security Council on September 22 will gather to discuss the incident.
Provocations from the side of Russia
Poland recorded penetration of more than 20 Russian drones into its airspace in the night from September 9 to 10. For the first time NATO fighters shot down four drones. Before this, the Polish military only observed Russian drones and missiles, expecting that they would again fly into Ukraine, where they would explode.
In addition, two Russian fighters violated the safety zone of the Petrobaltic drilling platform in the Baltic Sea.
Warsaw considers these actions as consistent provocations from the side of Russia. They create a threat not only for Poland itself but also for the entire eastern flank of NATO.
