Poland Closes Multiple Airports Amid Russian Drone Incursions, NATO Military Response

Poland has raised its air defenses to the highest alert level following incursions of Russian Shahed drones into its airspace on the night of September 9–10, resulting in the temporary closure of key airports including Rzeszów and Lublin. The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces confirmed activation of all necessary defensive procedures, with Polish and allied aircraft, including US F-35s and F-16s, operating in the area alongside ground-based air defense and radar systems. The drone activity is linked to a broader large-scale Russian aerial assault on Ukraine, which included an overnight missile blitz involving over 800 drones and decoys, causing casualties and prompting Ukrainian calls for international support. NATO has responded by increasing its aerial presence in the region, with Italian early warning aircraft and Dutch air tankers operating in Polish airspace. While some reports suggest the drones may have been lost rather than intentionally targeting Poland, the incident marks a significant escalation, potentially leading to an extended NATO air defense zone over Western Ukraine. Polish forces remain vigilant and prepared to respond further if required, as tensions across the region continue to rise.