By Esther Ososanya
The Netherlands will send two Patriot air defence systems and 300 personnel to Poland to protect a key hub for military aid to Ukraine, Polish Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announced on Thursday.
The move comes just days after a Russian-made drone crashed into a cornfield in eastern Poland, sparking fires, shattering windows, and raising fresh fears of airspace violations during the ongoing war in neighbouring Ukraine.
Kosiniak-Kamysz said the decision underscores Poland’s crucial role in securing the logistical transfer of aid to Ukraine.
“Due to the ongoing conflict and Poland’s role in securing Ukraine, the Netherlands has declared support for securing our airspace with Patriot systems,” he told reporters.
The Dutch Defence Ministry confirmed the systems will be stationed in Poland from December 1 to June 1 next year, boosting NATO’s eastern defences.
A prosecutor investigating the drone incident revealed it most likely originated from Belarus, a close ally of Moscow, intensifying security tensions as diplomatic efforts to end the war continue.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
