“Deadly blast in Poland was likely caused by a Ukrainian air defense missile defending against Russian attacks,” said NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

“Investigation into this incident is ongoing and we need to await its outcome. But we have no indication that this was the result of a deliberate attack. And we have no indication that Russia is preparing offensive military actions against NATO,” Stoltenberg said at a press conference after the meeting of the North Atlantic Council to discuss yesterday’s explosion in Eastern Poland.

“Our preliminary analysis suggests that the incident was likely caused by a Ukrainian air defense missile fired to defend Ukrainian territory against Russian cruise missile attacks. But let me be clear. This is not Ukraine's fault. Russia bears ultimate responsibility as it continues its illegal war against Ukraine,” he added.

On Tuesday, two missiles struck the territory of Poland at the village of Przewodów near the border with Ukraine. The incident occurred during a larger attack on Ukrainian cities and energy facilities by Russia.

It was the first incident within NATO territory during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Polish media reported that two people were killed in an explosion at a grain dryer. Polish officials stated that the cause of the explosion was unknown.

The Polish radio station Radio ZET reported that two stray rockets fell on the village, causing the explosion.

NATO members started to review the evidence soon after the explosion was reported.

Poland requested a NATO meeting on Wednesday, on the basis of NATO Article 4. NATO diplomats said that the alliance would act cautiously and needed time to verify exactly how the incident happened. (ILKHA)