Poland has warned that a Russian Mi‑8 military helicopter briefly crossed into its airspace, prompting a swift scramble of fighter jets and a heightened alert for its air defence units.
The aircraft entered from Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave and, according to Polish reports, penetrated about 300 metres (328 yards) north of Braniewo before being tracked by radar for 42 seconds. The incident was deemed a “test of our air defence readiness” by the Polish Army Operational Command.
In the past week, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk accused Russia of attempting drone and missile strikes on NATO members, framing the event as part of a broader “hybrid” threat aimed at intimidating European allies. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed similar concerns, pledging to protect critical infrastructure against potential attacks.
Hybrid warfare—non‑military tactics such as cyber‑attacks, sabotage, and misinformation—has increasingly targeted NATO states. Recent reports list incidents including a drone attack on Leipzig airport, fire at defence facilities in Estonia, and radio‑dropped missiles, all raising alarms about escalating hostilities.
Moscow has not yet commented on the helicopter incursion, while NATO continues to monitor the situation closely. The incident highlights the fragile security environment surrounding Ukraine and the heightened vigilance of Eastern European allies.
