Von der Leyen announced initiative to enhance real-time surveillance and bolster Europe’s eastern border security
Brussels
European leaders on Wednesday condemned Russia’s drone swarm attack on Poland and announced new defence measures, including an “Eastern Flank Watch” and a “drone wall” to protect EU airspace in partnership with NATO.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled the initiative, saying it would improve real-time surveillance and strengthen Europe’s eastern borders. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk praised NATO and Polish forces for intercepting Russian drones, while warning of further threats.
French President Emmanuel Macron called the incursion “unacceptable” and a “reckless escalation.” NATO confirmed numerous drones crossed into Polish airspace before being shot down. NATO Secretary General is in close consultation with Poland over the security breach.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban expressed solidarity with Poland but reiterated calls for peace, supporting US President Donald Trump’s efforts for negotiations. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda warned that Russia was “deliberately expanding its aggression.”
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported a massive overnight attack on Ukraine, with more than 400 drones and over 40 missiles striking 15 regions. One civilian was killed and several were injured. At least eight Iranian-made Shahed drones crossed into NATO airspace over Poland, which Zelenskyy described as “an extremely dangerous precedent for Europe.” He urged partners to impose tougher sanctions and provide stronger weapons.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha cautioned that Putin’s impunity emboldens further escalation. “A weak response now will provoke Russia even more,” he said. EU Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis reaffirmed that the bloc “will defend every inch of its territory.”