Reckless... a wake-up call for the West

Taoiseach & Tanaiste slam Russia as drones enter Poland's airspace. Polish PM: We're closer to war than any time since WW2

- CIARA O'LOUGHLIN

TAOISEACH Micheal Martin said the violation of Poland's airspace by Russian drones was a "reckless and unprecedented act" - and a stark reminder of the threat posed to Europe's security.

It comes as Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said his country was at its closest to "open conflict" than at any time "since World War Two".

Authorities in Poland said multiple Russian drones entered and were shot down over its territory last night.

Speaking yesterday, the Taoiseach said he "strongly condemns" the violation of Poland's territorial integrity and sovereignty by Russia.

He added: "This was a reckless and unprecedented act that is a stark reminder of the threat posed by Russia to Europe's security.

"Ireland stands in full solidarity with Poland and its right to take necessary steps to defend its sovereign territory.

"These events underline the need to strengthen our support for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russia's ongoing war of aggression." Tanaiste and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Harris said this "has to be a wake-up call for the West".