Russian Drone Provocation Stirs Tensions in Poland

A Russian drone crashed in a Polish cornfield, prompting allegations of provocation by Moscow. Polish officials are investigating the incident near the Ukrainian border, which mirrors past incursions by Russian drones into European airspace. The event heightens regional security concerns amid ongoing peace discussions in Ukraine.

A Russian drone crash in a field in eastern Poland has been described as a provocation by Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz. The drone, which scorched a cornfield in Osiny village, lies within 100km of the Ukrainian border, and has sparked heightened tensions.

The drone is suspected to be a Russian version of an Iranian-designed Shahed drone, with a Chinese engine. Experts suggest it mirrors earlier incidents involving Russian drones in Lithuanian and Romanian airspace, raising questions amidst ongoing discussions to resolve the Ukraine conflict.

Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski announced plans to protest the airspace violation. The incident follows historic incidents such as a stray Ukrainian missile landing in Poland in 2022, underscoring Poland's emphasis on protecting its territory as part of NATO commitments.

(With inputs from agencies.)