NATO announced new air defense measures in Poland after Russian drones violated its airspace, with the UK, France, Germany, and Denmark pledging fighter jets and other assets to support the mission. The move comes as Ukraine continues to face heavy Russian aggression, and Polish leaders warn that Moscow’s incursions are deliberate provocations.
Earlier this week, 21 Russian drones entered Poland, forcing the closure of four airports after one penetrated deep into the country. While NATO forces, including Dutch F-35s, intercepted several drones, officials stressed that the scale of the operation marked a dangerous escalation. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk rejected claims that the incursion was accidental, stating, “We know it wasn’t a mistake.”
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said Russia’s actions “violated NATO airspace,” highlighting a pattern of similar drone incidents in Romania, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. He added that whether deliberate or not, such operations were “reckless and unacceptable.”
Denmark will send two F-16s and an anti-air frigate, France three Rafale fighters, Germany four Typhoons, while the UK is considering up to six Typhoons. NATO commanders said the enhanced mission, known as “Eastern Sentry,” will expand from the Arctic to the Black Sea to counter Russian drones and missiles more effectively.