Moscow: The Russian army stated on Wednesday that it did not target Polish sites during an overnight drone attack on Ukraine, following Poland’s report of downing several Russian drones that breached its airspace. Russia’s defence ministry said in an English statement, "There were no intentions to engage any targets on the territory of Poland," without confirming or denying whether its drones entered Polish airspace. The ministry added, "We are ready to hold consultations on this subject with the Polish defence ministry."

Poland and NATO forces intercepted multiple drone incursions into Polish airspace amid a Russian aerial assault on Ukraine. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the violations as a "large-scale provocation" and confirmed that drones posing a direct threat were neutralised. This incident marks the first time a NATO member has engaged in such an operation during the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Poland closed several airports temporarily and advised residents in vulnerable areas to stay indoors.

The Russian side has dismissed accusations as baseless, while officials in Europe have described the incursions as deliberate provocations, raising the stakes in the war.

Tusk affirmed Poland’s preparedness to counter provocations and emphasised the consensus among allies to brace for various scenarios as the situation develops.

With inputs from AFP