Polish prime minister warns Russia is planning drone or rocket strikes on European countries supporting Ukraine as ‘Carpathian Eight’ meet

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki cautioned Russia of preparing to launch drone or rocket attacks on European nations backing Ukraine during a summit of eight nations. The "Carpathian Eight" gathering, attended by Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary, aimed to bolster cooperation and security ties amid Russia's escalating hybrid threats.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who convened the summit in Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, stressed the significance of the meeting in strengthening bilateral relations and fostering EU-level cooperation in various sectors. Poland and Romania, among the participating countries, have been vocal supporters of Ukraine's cause, while Hungary, Serbia, and Slovakia have refrained from providing direct military assistance.

As part of the discussions, EU officials expressed concern over Russia's potential use of hybrid tactics, including drones and rockets, against NATO allies. Polish Prime Minister Morawiecki specifically warned that Moscow might target European countries supporting Ukraine with such attacks. The summit came amid Russia's ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which has resulted in numerous casualties and infrastructure damages.

In the wake of the summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated his denial of aggressive intentions toward Europe, while warning that the nation would respond to any hostile actions by Western allies. He also reiterated his stance on Western seizures of Russian ships, asserting that any retaliation would be proportionate and targeted.