Poland’s military said early Wednesday that it had shot down drones that violated its airspace during a Russian attack on neighboring Ukraine, the first time it has taken such a step in what is a major provocation for Europe and NATO forces.

“This is an act of aggression that posed a real threat to the safety of our citizens,” said Poland’s Operation Command in a post on X Wednesday morning.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed a military response operation was underway “related to multiple violations of Polish airspace” and said “the military has used weapons against the objects.”

“The security of our homeland is our highest priority,” said President Karol Nawrocki, in a post on X, adding that he will lead a briefing of Poland’s National Security Bureau in the coming hours.

Poland is

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