Michał Kujawski: At night from Tuesday to Wednesday, we witnessed escalation. A significant number of drones came in Polish airspace. Can we talk about an attack?
Piotr Łukasiewicz: The raid of the drones was unprecedented. For the first time, NATO forces shot down foreign unmanned aerial vehicles. The violations of the third of third countries have already happened before, but what distinguishes this incident is both the scale of the violation and the definite response – the defense of the Polish aircraft and the shooting of drones. Importantly, allied forces also took part in the operation.
Many ask themselves whether NATO really works.
This is undoubtedly so! Both military – in the most direct sense – and diplomatically. Consultations were convened pursuant to art. 4 of the Treaty. Fortunately, no one was injured in the attack except infrastructure damage. We are clearly dealing with Russia's hostile intentions. On the same day, Russia attacked Ukraine with hundreds of drones and missiles. The fact that some of these drones also got to Poland shows what intentions Russia has towards Ukraine's allies.
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What can stop Russia from continuing such activities?
The situation related to Russia's invasion of Ukraine is so dynamic that it is difficult to predict specific events. The reaction undertaken by the Polish Air Force, alongside our allies, was adapted to the level of threat posed by drones – and was determined. I would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the allied forces for their support.
Considering the large number of drones and many hours of surgery, it is difficult to consider it as an accident. What was the purpose of Russia?
The motives will be analyzed by Polish services and armed forces, as well as by our allies. Our diplomatic mission in Kiev is also involved in this process. The most important thing is that the disaster was averted, the reaction was determined, and a bright signal was sent to Russia, which does not require further explanations.
“Ukrainian society is doing extremely well”
What specific lessons from Ukraine can get Poland?
Poland is already studying from Ukraine. We are witnessing a war, which is very different from those we know – differs time, scale and intensity. It is different than the war in Afghanistan or Iraq, in which I took part myself. We also need to see lessons beyond the army, namely social immunity. Ukrainian society, subject to brutal aggression – not from 2022, but from 2014 – is doing extremely well with huge social stress. The role of civil society organization, veterans and military in society is crucial.
A good example is the “Babska Guard” initiative, which operates throughout the country and teaches women how to cope – to put it simply – without her husband. They publish textbooks and guides on how to survive this difficult war. What we see is a country that works definitely. Ukraine has always been a decentralized country, while the war led to greater centralization. We often hear that Ukraine receives help and questions arise about its gratitude. I experience this gratitude every day. But I also want to emphasize: Ukraine is a source of knowledge.
“Russia destroys the future of its own citizens”
Diplomatic efforts are underway to end the war. At the same time, however, we observe the escalation of activities from Moscow. Should there be any signs of a room or a weapon suspension on the horizon?
Escalation can be seen in gloomy statistics. Just a few months ago, Russia fired dozens of drones. Now these are hundreds. Russia involved huge resources in this war. In this way he destroys the future of its own citizens. And I have to say this with a great sense of satisfaction: Ukrainian defenders eliminate Russian aggressors on a large scale. Russia will not win this war – in fact, it strategically lost it in the first weeks of the invasion. Even tactically, she failed to achieve her goals. The Russian economy is also struggling with difficulties. Russia must finally accept the fact that it will not achieve its goals.
Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, reviews the documents in the Kremlin. Moscow, September 12, 2025PAP/EPA/Sputnik/Kremlin Pool
Should we expect the war to end or be suspended before the end of this year?
I am deeply convinced that the fate of this war will be decided on the battlefield. From a political point of view, none of the parties can be forced to make more concessions. Pressure could lead to freezing the conflict, which would allow negotiations – but Russia is not interested in it. Ukrainians also know perfectly well what cruelty and torture reach in the occupied territories. This is another important reason to continue to defend your country and follow the path towards the EU and NATO
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
