Poland promises to shoot down Russian planes 'without question' in move that could trigger WW3
Tensions are rising in Europe as Russia continues to test the resolve of neighbouring countries with Poland now confirming that it will shoot down any Russian planes 'without question' if they violate its airspace.
Earlier this month, Russian drones were shot down in Poland, and last week, planes were spotted in Estonia, which led both countries to request emergency meetings with fellow EU members to discuss the threat that Russia poses.
Most of Europe has united against Vladimir Putin ever since Russia invaded Ukraine back in 2022, and despite Donald Trump's best efforts to broker a peace deal between the two countries, the actions of the Russian president have been erratic to say the least in recent weeks.
Donald Tusk, the Polish prime minister, has now made it clear that he will take decisive action against Russia if any further planes are spotted where they shouldn't be.
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He said: "We will take the decision to shoot down flying objects when they violate our territory and fly over Poland - there is absolutely no discussion about that."
However, he made it clear that he is not seeking any conflict, and would think twice in situations that aren't completely clear-cut.
Tusk added: "When we're dealing with situations that aren't entirely clear, such as the recent flight of Russian fighter jets over the Petrobaltic platform - but without any violation, because these aren't our territorial waters - you really need to think twice before deciding on actions that could trigger a very acute phase of conflict."
Czech president Petr Pavel also warned that NATO must be ready and willing to shoot down Russian planes in cases where they violate foreign airspaces.
He said: "Russia will realise very quickly that they have made a mistake and crossed the acceptable boundaries. Unfortunately, this is teetering on the edge of conflict, but giving in to evil is simply not an option."
Estonian prime minister Kristen Michal also condemned Russia's actions as completely unacceptable.
He said: "Such a violation is completely unacceptable. NATO's response to any provocation must be united and strong.
"We consider it essential to consult with our allies to ensure shared situational awareness and to agree on our next joint steps."
Ukraine, which has undoubtedly suffered most at the hands of Russia, was also quick to speak out and requested to join in with yesterday's UN meeting, which was the first emergency meeting called by Estonia in its 34 years of UN membership.
Foreign minister Andrii Sybiha wrote on Twitter: "For the first time in 34 years, Estonia has requested an emergency UNSC meeting.
"This shows the unprecedented scale of threats posed by aggressive Russia to the stability of Europe."
James Moorhouse