Asked whether Poland would shoot down a Russian military jet violating its airspace, Sikorski said the country would act if a Russian aircraft intercepted by the Polish Air Force did not follow orders, stressing that the priority is protecting Polish citizens.
The foreign minister highlighted that NATO aircraft, including those from Poland, do not enter Russian airspace.
Minister Sikorski described Russian actions as part of a one-sided hybrid campaign, which has included arson, incendiary packages, and assassinations.
When asked whether Poland’s response would differ between manned and unmanned aircraft, Sikorski said any violation of sovereign airspace would be met with decisive action, comparing the situation to how similar intrusions over the United States would be handled.
Poland's top diplomat added that recent Russian drone and aircraft activity shows clear limits, as Moscow has realised it cannot push further without consequences.
Series of Russian airspace violations across Europe
Recent incidents over Europe have included multiple airspace violations. On the night of 9 to 10 September, drones entered Polish airspace. Over the past weekend, Russian military aircraft spent 12 minutes in Estonian airspace.
On Wednesday, there was an attempt to interfere with the GPS signal of a Spanish military aircraft carrying Defence Minister Margarita Robles over the Baltic. Authorities have not identified the perpetrators of this latest incident.
Hosting US troops in Poland is financially beneficial for Washington, says FM Sikorski
Sikorski also told CNN that hosting American forces in Poland is financially beneficial for Washington. Under a Status of Forces Agreement, Poland contributes about $15,000 annually for each US soldier stationed on its territory.
The foreign minister added that during President Nawrocki’s recent visit to the White House, President Trump reaffirmed that US troops will remain in Poland and indicated that further support could be considered if needed.
The head of Polish diplomacy said he had also discussed the matter with the United States Department of War, which confirmed that commitment.
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Source: CNN/X/@sikorskiradek
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