Russian President Vladimir Putin takes part, via videoconference in Sochi, Russia, Monday, Sept. 8, 2025.

Vladimir Putin seems to be testing Nato after Poland had to shoot down multiple threatening objects in its airspace overnight.

Poland, as a member of the North Atlantic Defence Alliance, has tried to stay out of Russia’s attack on Ukraine but this moment risks drawing it directly into the conflict.

Here’s what you need to know.

What happened?

After spotting more than 10 objects entering its airspace, Poland had to shoot down up to four drones on Wednesday night, as they reportedly posed a threat.

While that might sound insignificant, that marks the first time a member of Nato is known to have fired shots during Russia’s three and a half year war against Ukraine.

Polish residents have subsequently been urged to stay home, especially if they live in three eastern regions which are particularly at risk.

This is not the first time Russia’s bordering nations have reported missiles or drones entering their airspace since Putin invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Two people were killed during the first year of the conflict by a Ukrainian air defence missile which went astray in Poland.

But, this is the first time quite so many objects have been spotted in another country’s airspace, suggesting it was intentional rather than a mistake.

Europe has described it as an intentional incursion and a sign that the conflict is escalating.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia used 415 drones and 40 missiles in an overnight attack on Ukraine – and at least eight drones were aimed towards Poland.

He described this as “an extremely dangerous precedent for Europe,” and called for a strong, “joint response by all partners: Ukraine, Poland, all Europeans, the United States.”

These images from Poland show the aftermath of the Russian drones crossing the border into Poland.

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