Drone Tensions: Russia and Poland

In a recent press conference held in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggested that Russia’s drone attack on Poland might have been a strategic move to discourage Western allies from supplying air defense systems to Ukraine. The statement came during a joint appearance with Finnish President Alexander Stubb on September 11, 2025.

President Zelenskyy emphasized that the attack was likely an attempt to probe the North Atlantic Alliance’s political and military response capabilities. “This attack is technologically akin to the Crimea scenario, highlighting a shift from traditional military incursions to sophisticated drone warfare,” Zelenskyy remarked, noting the use of Russian-made drones in the operation.

Zelenskyy also offered Poland Ukraine’s assistance and shared insights from Ukraine’s extensive experience in countering Russian aggression. He highlighted the inefficiency of using high-cost systems like Patriot missiles against cheaper strike drones, advocating for a multi-layered defense strategy that includes mobile fire units, interceptor drones, and various aircraft.

The Ukrainian President underscored the importance of developing a robust and effective defense framework for Europe, stressing that only a comprehensive, multi-system approach can effectively counter large-scale drone attacks.