Trump Says Russian Drone Incursion Into Poland May Have Been a ‘Mistake’

U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday that the alleged entry of Russian drones into Polish airspace may have occurred by accident, a remark that drew scrutiny for appearing to downplay Moscow’s actions.

“It could have been a mistake,” Trump told reporters, after Poland announced Wednesday that several Russian drones crossed its border over several hours before being shot down with NATO assistance.

The president’s comment contrasted with the sharper responses of European leaders and even his own envoy to NATO, Matthew Whitaker, who wrote on X: “We stand by our @NATO Allies in the face of these airspace violations and will defend every inch of NATO territory.”

On Truth Social earlier, Trump reacted more ambiguously: “What’s with Russia violating Poland’s airspace with drones? Here we go!” His remarks come as he continues to push for direct peace talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, more than three years into Russia’s war in Ukraine.