On September 9, 2025, a significant security incident occurred when 19 to 23 Russian drones crossed into Polish airspace, marking the most serious breach involving Russia and a NATO member since the start of the Ukraine conflict. Poland swiftly responded, shooting down at least eight drones with support from allied NATO forces, including Dutch F-35s. Airports in Warsaw and other eastern Polish cities were temporarily closed as a precaution. The drones, described as “decoys” without explosives, caused some damage, including hitting a residential building in Lublin Voivodeship. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk condemned the incursion as a deliberate provocation, rejecting suggestions that it was accidental. This episode has driven Poland to accelerate its military modernization efforts, including plans to acquire F-35 jets from the U.S. NATO allies, including Germany, France, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic, are reinforcing Poland’s eastern defenses with additional troops, air defense systems, and fighter aircraft. The incident has intensified European concerns over security and underscored the need for NATO unity and self-reliance in the face of escalating Russian aggression, particularly with ongoing Russia-Belarus military exercises near NATO borders. Poland has also closed its border with Belarus as a security measure. This marks a critical moment for Europe’s defense strategy, emphasizing independent capability buildup amid uncertain U.S. leadership.