Unannounced military air defense exercises involving drones and aircraft over Hrubieszów have triggered public alarm, exposing a critical communication breakdown between the Polish armed forces and local municipal authorities.
Military Exercises Underway
Footage of drones and aircraft over Hrubieszów began circulating on Tuesday, causing significant anxiety among residents. In response, the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces confirmed that scheduled air defense drills are taking place in eastern Poland and will continue through Wednesday, May 20.
The exercises involve specific Air Force and Land Force units tasked with verifying procedures and testing combat readiness. Additionally, the military noted that the tactical-special exercise COMMON SAREX-26 is currently being held in the northern part of the country to test search and rescue capabilities.
Mayor Denounces Lack of Communication
Hrubieszów Mayor Marta Majewska stated that the city and its crisis management center received no prior warning about the drills. She characterized the lack of basic communication with local government in a sensitive border region, particularly amid the current international climate, as unacceptable.
Majewska revealed that the city only obtained information at 1:50 p.m. after requesting explanations from the local police. It emerged that the district governor had been notified by the military, yet this information was not relayed to municipal services or the public.
Call for Better Transparency
The mayor has sent an official letter to the district governor regarding the incident. She emphasized that the goal is not to incite political conflict but to ensure public safety and reliable communication.
Majewska maintained that residents have a right to be informed about activities that may cause social unease. She argued that local government authorities should not be forced to learn about such operations only after drones are already active and emergency lines are being overwhelmed by concerned callers.
