Kosiniak-Kamysz says Russian drones could reach Poland if Ukraine lacks interceptors

Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz warned that if Ukraine lacks sufficient air defenses, Russian drones could potentially reach Polish soil, according to a report from TVN24 on September 18. The minister's comments came during a parliamentary speech and echoed concerns about Russian aggression, which he described as a planned strategy targeting NATO states.

Kosiniak-Kamysz stressed that recent incidents near NATO borders should not be dismissed as isolated or accidental, but rather as deliberate actions. Polish fighter jets have been scrambled multiple times to counter Russian attacks on Ukraine, and the government is preparing a new military aid package for Ukraine worth around €50 million, which includes Patriot interceptor missiles.

The minister emphasized the importance of providing Ukraine with air-defense equipment and ammunition to prevent Russian drones from reaching Poland, stating that such a scenario would be detrimental to Poland's national interests and its relationship with NATO and Western Europe. Kosiniak-Kamysz dismissed criticism from right-wing Confederation Party leader Sławomir Mentzen, who had pointed out Poland's shortcomings in artillery ammunition reserves, reserve training, civil defense, and shelter availability.

The Polish government has been increasing its military readiness in response to Russian attacks, with no violations of Polish airspace reported during the latest alert on September 19.