Tensions Rise: France Deploys Rafale Jets to Poland Amid Escalating Standoff

Poland-Russia conflict: The situation in Eastern Europe has suddenly become tense. Russia and Belarus started joint military exercises on Saturday in the area adjacent to the Polish border. A few days ago, during this exercise, a Russian drone reached the border of Poland, which was shot down by the Air Force. Security agencies are fully alert since the incident.

Poland on Alert, France Sends Fighter Jets

Warsaw has put its army on full alert. According to the Defense Ministry, patrolling has been increased in the border areas. Meanwhile, France has made it clear that it stands with Poland. Paris has announced it will send its Rafale fighter jets to Poland. This is being considered a direct message to Russia.

India’s Diplomatic Stand

India is also keeping an eye on the situation. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke to Poland's Foreign Minister Rados Sikorski. He said that it is very important for the Ukraine war to end soon so that stability can return to the region.

Russia’s Clarification

The Russian Defense Ministry says that the military exercise will be held in two phases. The first phase will include rescue, and the second phase will include preparations for retaliation. The ministry also said that the drone that fell in Poland was not targeted by Poland, but by Ukraine.

US and Poland React

US President Donald Trump called the drone incident a "mistake," but Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk called it a conspiracy. Tusk said that it was not just a technical error but a well-planned move.

Ukraine Strikes Back

Amid the tension, Ukraine launched a drone attack on Russia's major oil terminal, Primorsk. The fire damaged the ship and the pumping station. However, Russia claimed that it shot down more than 30 drones on the way, and many drones heading towards Moscow were destroyed.

Prince Harry in Kyiv

Meanwhile, Britain's Prince Harry suddenly reached Kyiv. He met injured Ukrainian soldiers and praised their courage amid the war.