Breaking: Russian drones crossed into polish airspace during attacks on Ukraine, prompting Poland to scramble aircraft and deploy interceptors, a first for a NATO member state during the conflict.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin condemned the incident as a “reckless and unprecedented act,” and a “stark reminder of the threat posed by russia to Europe’s security.” He affirmed Ireland’s “full solidarity with Poland and its right to take necessary steps to defend its sovereign territory.”
Poland reported scrambling aircraft alongside allies to shoot down “opposed objects” violating its airspace. Mr. Martin stated the events underscore the need to strengthen support for Ukraine as it defends itself against russia’s “ongoing war of aggression.”
Tánaiste Simon Harris expressed deep concern regarding the “incursion of Polish airspace and territorial integrity by Russia,” calling it a “wake-up call for the West.” He advocated for substantially increased sanctions against Russia, stating, ”We know sanctions have an effect, but we also know there are many more robust sanctions that could be taken.”
Mr. Harris suggested that sanctions would be more impactful with US partnership, noting President Donald Trump’s previous discussions on the matter. “The time for thinking about them is over,” he said.
In separate developments, Mr. Martin described European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s proposal to suspend the EU’s trade agreement with Israel as a “very meaningful progress.” he noted Ireland has long called for this action, citing the situation in Gaza as “absolutely catastrophic without any moral justification.” Ms. von der Leyen delivered her harshest criticism of Israel to date during her State of the Union address in Strasbourg.
Tánaiste concerned about ‘incursion of Polish airspace’
