Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko commented on the violation of Polish airspace by Russian drones, describing the situation as “savage behavior,” and reflected on Polish President Andrzej Duda’s diplomatic evolution.
Lukashenko’s Remarks on Drones Over Poland
Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko addressed the violation of Polish airspace by Russian drones, stating, “You see what’s happening now. Drones were flying there. We were also accused of it, although they didn’t fly towards us.” He continued: “We saw where these drones were flying. We shot down everything possible. But a few remained. We immediately informed Poland with the earliest warning possible what was happening.” Noting the response, Lukashenko added, “They behaved like animals. Suddenly they stoke tension. It’s likely that they want us to react appropriately. Well, I’ve warned a thousand times [source: https://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/Razem#anchorLink] that we don’t want any wars or conflicts. We don’t want borders to be closed. If we’re put before the fact, we might be forced to react.”
Lukashenko on Polish Leadership
Speaking about Polish authorities, Lukashenko said: “As I always say, Poles are wise people. They won’t allow for any more of that kind of behavior. Tusk, Nowacki, Duda [source: https://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/Donald-Tusk#anchorLink], [source: https://wiadomosci.gaza.pl/andrzej-duda#anchorLink]. The latter grew wiser when he stopped being president and gave a few interviews. Earlier, as the first, he incited war in Ukraine. Now he blames Ukraine. What for? What can we do? That’s their problem. Our task is to protect the country.” he mentioned.
Lithuania Closes Airspace in Response
Lithuania will close its airspace starting from 6 PM local time on Thursday (September 11) at its eastern border [source: https://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/granica#anchorLink]. The restriction will be in effect for at least a week and may be extended. Lithuanian Defense Minister Andris Spruds assured that no immediate threat faces his country. The closure of airspace at Lithuania’s border with Russia and Belarus is a preventive measure. The politician noted that the decision was made after Russian drones intruded into Poland. “We have to remember that this was also a violation of NATO’s common airspace. We have commissioned an analysis of the security of airspace today, and we can announce that from now on, we are closing the airspace at our eastern border,” he said.
