Polish and NATO forces shot down drones that violated Poland’s airspace during a Russian aerial attack on Ukraine.

Fighter jets were scrambled after more than a dozen drones entered Polish territory, marking the first direct involvement of NATO forces in the conflict.

The Polish military confirmed weapons were used to neutralize the drones, and operations to recover debris were launched.

Polish and allied aircraft, along with air defence and radar systems, were placed on high alert to secure the skies.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk said drone fragments were found in several towns and confirmed the drones originated from Russia, calling the incident a “large-scale provocation.”

He announced ongoing coordination with NATO and convened an emergency government meeting.

Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz confirmed aircraft engaged hostile objects and maintained contact with NATO command.

Ukraine’s foreign minister warned that President Vladimir Putin is expanding the war and testing Western resolve, urging NATO to intercept drones and missiles before they reach alliance borders.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said eight drones were directed at Poland, calling the incident “an extremely dangerous precedent for Europe,” Al-Jazeera has reported.

EU officials condemned Russia’s escalation, with calls for a “drone wall” along the eastern border and stronger European defence initiatives.