“Antonio Guterres is very concerned by the reports of a missile exploding on Polish territory. It is absolutely essential to avoid escalating the war in Ukraine,” the UN chief said, according to his spokesman Farhan Haq.

“He sends his condolences to the families of the victims. He hopes that a thorough investigation will be conducted,” 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)