Polish Ministry of Defence: If a missile flies towards Poland, it will be shot down

Commenting on Russia's large-scale missile strike on Ukraine, which took place on 23-24 February, Polish Deputy Defence Minister Cezary Tomczyk said that Poland was ready to shoot down a missile that would come towards them.

Here's What We Know

During this period, Russia carried out attacks using ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as drones. They were launched from aircraft and ships in the Black Sea. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that 120 missiles and 90 drones were used in the attack, which targeted energy infrastructure facilities.

At the same time, Poland's Operational Command of the Armed Forces announced the increased readiness of Polish and allied troops near the eastern border.

Asked by Polsat News how close the targets of the Russian attack were to the Polish border, Tomczyk said they were "a few tens of kilometres away".

"Poland has sent a couple of fighter jets into the air. Our American allies took similar actions. A tanker was also lifted into the air for refuelling in order to continue flights if necessary," he said.

Tomczyk noted that Russia's goal is to damage Ukraine's critical infrastructure on the eve of winter.

"Russia is trying to leave Ukrainians without electricity and heat, and this is the main goal of the attacks," he stressed.

Asked if there was a threat that the missile could have been fired towards Poland, Tomczyk denied it.

"This situation has not happened today, but we are ready for such a development. If the missile is flying in our direction, it will definitely be shot down," he stressed.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga called the strike one of Russia's largest attacks.

"Drones and missiles are targeting peaceful cities, sleeping residents, and critical infrastructure. This is the real response of war criminal Putin to the calls and visits of those who want to negotiate with him. Peace is needed, but it can only be achieved by force, not concessions," the Ukrainian minister said.

Source: Defence 24