EU Vows to Increase Sanctions on Russia Over Drone Incursions

The European Union announced plans to strengthen sanctions against Russia after a significant incursion of Russian drones into Polish airspace overnight on September 10, 2025. The incident, which saw at least 19 Russian drones enter Poland—some shot down by Polish and NATO aircraft—marked the first time NATO engaged Moscow's military assets over its territory during the ongoing war in Ukraine. Polish officials denounced the event as a deliberate provocation, triggering NATO Article 4 consultations and raising alarm across the alliance.

EU Response and Sanctions Package

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in her annual State of the European Union address on September 10, expressed "full solidarity" with Poland and outlined a robust response. She confirmed that the EU is preparing its 19th sanctions package targeting Russia, with measures likely to include restrictions on Russian banks, energy imports, and the so-called "shadow fleet" that facilitates Russian oil exports. For the first time, Brussels is considering secondary sanctions on foreign companies that help Russia circumvent existing measures. Von der Leyen also proposed additional steps, such as limiting Russian tourist visas and reducing the presence of Russian diplomats in the bloc.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky echoed these calls, stating that "the EU's best response to the incursion of Russian drones into its airspace would be a powerful 19th sanctions package." He emphasized the need to target Russia’s banking sector and third-country banks that continue trading with Moscow, as well as infrastructure supporting Russia’s war budget. Zelensky also noted ongoing consultations between the EU and the U.S. to synchronize sanctions and maximize pressure on Russian energy revenues.

Regional and International Reactions

The incursion has galvanized calls for decisive action from regional and international actors. The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) and Polish-American groups urged NATO and the EU to respond forcefully, describing the drone attack as "a dangerous escalation not just against Ukraine, but against NATO’s eastern flank and international law." They called for strengthened sanctions, increased military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, and bolstered defenses along NATO’s eastern borders.

U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued a statement condemning Russia’s violation of Polish airspace and criticized the U.S. administration for its perceived lack of decisive action. Shaheen called for immediate passage of bipartisan sanctions legislation and coordinated efforts with European allies to "crush Russia’s war machine" and target its enablers, including those in China.

Security Implications and Next Steps

Security experts warn that the drone incursion represents a deliberate test of NATO’s resolve and a broader threat to European stability. The attack targeted strategic infrastructure, including Rzeszów airport—a key U.S. base and logistics hub for Ukraine. Analysts note that Russia’s drone capabilities have improved, making future provocations more difficult to counter. In response, the EU is considering increased financial support for drone production in Ukraine and enhanced surveillance along its eastern flank.

While the EU’s new sanctions package is still under development, officials stress the need for swift and coordinated action to deter further Russian aggression. The incident has underscored the vulnerability of NATO’s eastern borders and the importance of maintaining a united front against Moscow’s escalating tactics.