What's happened
Poland's Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski asserts the country's obligation to shoot down incoming Russian missiles, prioritizing national airspace security amid escalating attacks on Ukraine. This stance raises concerns about NATO's involvement in the conflict as Poland activates its air defense systems.
Why it matters
What the papers say
Chris Stevenson from The Independent reports that Poland activated its aircraft to defend against Russian missile attacks, emphasizing the need for self-defense. Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba advocates for NATO countries to assist in intercepting missiles over Ukraine, arguing that such actions would not escalate the conflict. Kuleba's remarks reflect a broader call for enhanced air defense capabilities in the region, as the ongoing attacks have resulted in significant casualties and damage in Ukraine. The contrasting views from Polish and Ukrainian officials underscore the complexities of military engagement in the region and the delicate balance NATO must maintain.
How we got here
Recent weeks have seen intensified Russian missile and drone strikes on Ukraine, prompting Poland to consider its air defense responsibilities. A bilateral security agreement between Poland and Ukraine has further complicated the situation, as both nations seek to enhance their defensive capabilities.
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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Poland, officially the Republic of Poland, is a country located in Central Europe. It is divided into 16 administrative subdivisions, covering an area of 312,696 square kilometres, and has a largely temperate seasonal climate.