NATO fighter jets deployed to Ukraine border in Poland due to Russian threat

In a statement released by the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces, it was reported that Polish military and NATO fighter jets were deployed to the region today due to observed activity of Russian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in areas of Ukraine near the Polish border.

The statement said, "Due to the threat of a UAV attack in the border regions of Ukraine neighboring Poland, military aircraft have begun flights in our airspace." Officials reported that all procedures have been activated to ensure the security of Polish airspace, and that ground-based air defense and radar reconnaissance systems have been placed on the highest state of alert.

The Polish Air Navigation Services Agency (PAZP) announced that Lublin Airport was closed to civilian flights due to the movement of fighter jets. At the same time, the Polish Government Security Centre (RCB) sent SMS messages to citizens living in the Lublin region, calling on them to be vigilant against a possible air attack. In addition to the SMS messages reading, "Air raid danger. Be cautious. Follow the instructions of the authorities. Wait for further announcements," sirens also sounded in the cities of Swidnik and Chelm against the threat of an air attack. Lublin Airport was reopened to civilian flights after the air attack threat passed.

NATO'S 'EASTERN SENTRY' STEP

Polish officials also referred to the messages delivered by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte during a press conference at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, yesterday. The statement reported that following Rutte's announcement that NATO had launched the "Eastern Sentry" initiative, 3 Rafale fighter jets from the French Air Force began patrol missions over Poland today. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also spoke on the Eastern Sentry initiative, stating, "We thank European states for their decision to effectively strengthen our air defense and the protection of Polish borders with equipment and additional troop support."

In his statement yesterday, Rutte said, "As NATO, we must clearly demonstrate our determination and ability to protect our territory, and 'Eastern Sentry' aims to do exactly that. This military activity will take place in the coming days and will include elements from various allies, including Denmark, France, the UK, and Germany." Rutte did not provide information on how many additional troops would be deployed under the new operation in Eastern Europe, where NATO already has a significant military presence, but noted that the number of units to be assigned would be limited. It was reported that these units include 2 F-16 fighter jets and a frigate from Denmark, 3 Rafale fighter jets from France, and 4 Eurofighter fighter jets from Germany.