Kremlin Claims NATO Is “At War” After Russian Drones Are Shot Down Over Poland
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On September 10, 2025, Poland reported that around 19 Russian drones had crossed into its airspace amid a larger Russian aerial assault on Ukraine.
Some of these drones were shot down by Polish air defences, often with support from NATO aircraft. Prime Minister Donald Tusk called the incursion a “large-scale provocation,” given that Poland is a NATO member. The incident marked a notable shift — it’s one of the most serious violations of NATO territory in this war.
Russia’s Response & the Kremlin Rhetoric
The Kremlin responded forcefully. Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for the Kremlin, asserted that NATO is already involved in the war, directly and indirectly, by virtue of its material and political support for Ukraine. He claimed “with absolute certainty that NATO is fighting against Russia.”
Deputy Head of Russia’s Security Council Dmitry Medvedev also warned that certain proposals—like having NATO shoot down Russian UAVs over Ukrainian territory, or declaring a no-fly zone—would be tantamount to war. He described NATO’s growing role with increasing alarm.
Polish & NATO Reaction
Poland invoked Article 4 of the NATO treaty, which allows any member state to request consultation when it believes its territorial integrity or security is threatened. Prime Minister Tusk and Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski both argued that this incursion across Polish borders requires a strong and collective response. Poland also sought to escalate diplomatic pressure and called for enhanced air defence protection.
NATO forces participated in shooting down some of the drones, and events have prompted discussions among member states about bolstering defences on the eastern flank.
What Russia Says It Did
Moscow claims that the drones were targeting Ukrainian infrastructure and that none of the intended targets were in Poland.
According to Russian statements, the “strike objectives have been achieved,” and they insist there was no plan to attack Polish territory. Some statements also emphasise that the drone types used had a limited range (claiming under 700 km), aiming to push back against accusations that this was a deliberate attack on a NATO member.
Why the Stakes Are So High
- NATO’s threshold is being tested — Until now, direct military engagement (shooting down Russian drones over NATO territory) has been infrequent. This episode is widely seen as pushing the boundary of what triggers a broader alliance response.
- Risk of escalation — Russian rhetoric, especially high-profile voices warning that shooting down its drones or establishing no-fly zones over Ukraine would amount to war, increases the possibility of miscalculations.
- Diplomatic vs military escalation — Poland and NATO are pushing the diplomatic angle: consultations, invoking treaties, reinforcing defence posture. Russia seems acute in its framing—claiming NATO is already “fighting” by supporting Ukraine. What each side does next could determine whether this stays contained or spirals.
- Precedent for future airspace violations — If drone incursions continue, NATO will face pressure to respond more forcefully. Shared air defence, expanded patrols, and stricter rules of engagement may become standard. Moreover, regional security is under strain: civilians, infrastructure in border areas are increasingly at risk.
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