Rutte said at a press conference that on Wednesday morning the North Atlantic Council discussed the situation in the light of Poland's application for consultation pursuant to art. 4 of the Washington Treaty. The allies expressed solidarity with Poland and condemned Russia's actions – he added.
The Secretary General said that allies are determined to defend the territory of NATO, they will monitor the situation on the eastern flank of the alliance, and NATO air defense is constantly ready.
He also assessed that the invasion of drones in Poland, regardless of whether it was intentional or not, is absolutely dangerous and a full assessment of the event is underway.
“We are able to defend every centimeter of NATO territory, including airspace,” Rutte emphasized.
He also addressed words to the Russian leader.
– To (Vladimir) Putin, my message is clear. Stop the war in Ukraine. Stop violating the airspace of allies. And know that we are ready, that we are vigilant and that we will defend every centimeter of NATO territory – said Rutte.
On the night of Tuesday to Wednesday, the Polish Operational Command of the Armed Forces informed that during Russia's night attack on Ukraine, Poland airspace was repeatedly violated by drones. The necessary procedures were launched to ensure its safety. Around 7.40 cod announced on the website X about the end of aviation operation.
Deputy Prime Minister, head of the Ministry of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said that drones that could be a threat were shot down.
According to NATO, the alliance aircraft for the first time fought with a potential threat in NATO airspace. They were-as the sources said-Polish F-16 fighters, Dutch f-35 fighters and Italian Awacs reconnaissance aircraft.
