Poland explained why it did not shoot down the Russian missile

Polish air defence would shoot down a Russian missile if it was heading towards a target in Poland. Polish Defence Minister Vladyslav Kosiniak-Kamish said this at a press conference on 24 March.

Each such situation is considered individually. But if there were any signs that this object was heading to some target located on Polish territory, it would obviously be shot down," Kosiniak-Kamysz said.

He noted that taking into account such situations Poland is strengthening its air defence/protection system. Therefore, contracts were signed for the implementation of the second phase of the Vistula programme.

Kosiniak-Kamysh noted that Russia continues to violate international law by attacking the territory of Ukraine.

We will continue to support Ukraine, this support is important in the international arena, as well as military and humanitarian support. This is a matter concerning Polish and world security," the Polish defence minister stressed.

He added that one cannot count on Russia's normal behaviour and compliance with international law.

On 24 March at 05:23, a Russian missile violated Polish airspace near the village of Ozerdów in Lublin province and stayed there for 39 seconds.

The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces said that the Russian missile left Polish airspace, there was no need to shoot it down, as the relevant forces controlled the flight path.

The Polish Foreign Ministry said that it would demand explanations from the Russian Federation about the violation of Polish airspace by the Russian missile.