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September 10, 2025

Poland downs Russian drones after airspace breaches; NATO opens Article 4 consultations

NBC News
Euronews
Wikipedia
The Kyiv Independent
The Conversation
+13

First direct engagement between NATO and Russian forces triggers consultation

On the night of Sept 9–10, 2025, Poland reported roughly 19 drones violated its airspace during a major Russian aerial attack on Ukraine.

Polish and NATO aircraft intercepted and shot down multiple drones; up to four downed drones were confirmed by early reports.

Poland requested consultations under NATO Article 4 following the incursions. Article 4 mandates consultations when a member perceives threats. It does not automatically require collective force.

On Sept 12, 2025, NATO announced Operation Eastern Sentry to bolster air and ground defenses along the eastern flank. Several Allies, including Denmark, France, Germany and the UK, pledged forces or capabilities.

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Mark Rutte

Mark Rutte

NATO Secretary General

Donald Tusk

Prime Minister of Poland

Polish Armed Forces

NATO member military

What you can do

1

civic action|understanding

Contact your representative about NATO eastern flank support

Ask elected officials to request clear reporting on NATO's Eastern Sentry posture and to support strengthened air defenses in eastern Europe.

2

civic action|learning more

Request NATO transparency on rules of engagement

Ask NATO Public Diplomacy to publish guidance on how alliance assets will be used to defend member airspace to reduce miscalculation risks.

public.diplomacy@hq.nato.int