Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in an exclusive interview on Tuesday that Russia targeted his presidential jet with drones twice in recent weeks, including during flights through Moldovan airspace. Zelenskyy stated that drones approached his aircraft during departures and returns, with incidents occurring on Sept. 9 and a subsequent return trip not previously reported.
Zelenskyy also claimed that a Russian drone deliberately struck a passenger train carrying foreign dignitaries near the Polish border on Sunday, forcing an evacuation. The train included senior European officials and former CIA Director David Petraeus. Zelenskyy suggested the attack was intentional, stating, “I think that they knew” about the presence of Americans and Europeans on board.
NATO intercepts drone in Lithuanian airspace
On Tuesday, NATO fighter jets shot down an unidentified drone in Lithuanian airspace for the first time, according to Lithuanian military officials cited by The Associated Press. The incident follows a pattern of unidentified drones—some traced back to Russia—entering European airspace in recent months.
Ukrainian officials confirm safety of delegations
Ukrainian officials said all members of Zelenskyy’s delegation remained safe during the drone incidents. The president described the attacks as part of a Russian strategy to intimidate foreign leaders. Meanwhile, Moldovan and Ukrainian authorities have not confirmed whether the drone incursions were intentional or accidental.
Context: Escalating drone activity in Europe
The reported incidents coincide with a broader increase in drone activity across Europe, with some incursions linked to Russian military operations in Ukraine. NATO’s intervention in Lithuania underscores growing concerns over airspace violations amid the ongoing conflict. No official Russian response to the allegations has been provided as of publication.