NATO Rolls Out Eastern Flank Defense After Drone Incursions (Worthy News Radio)

by Stefan J. Bos, Worthy News Europe Bureau Chief

BRUSSELS/BUDAPEST (Worthy News) – The NATO military alliance has begun rolling out its defensive posture on its eastern flank bordering Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine. NATO leaders said the new equipment is aimed at deterring potential Russian aggression after at least 19 Russian drones entered Polish territory and Romania also reported a violation of its airspace.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced the initiative after talks with NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, U.S. General Alexus Grynkewich.

He said the alliance would add equipment from several nations to NATO’s air and ground-based defenses in the region, backed by thousands of troops already stationed there. “Today General Grynkewich and I are here to announce Operation Eastern Sentry to bolster our posture even further along our eastern flank,” Rutte told reporters.

“This military activity will commence in the coming days and will involve a range of assets from allies including Denmark, France, United Kingdom, Germany and others. In addition to more traditional capabilities, this effort will also feature elements for the particular challenges associated with the use of drones,” he added.

That was a reference to at least 19 suspected Russian drones that recently violated Poland’s airspace. Moscow has denied specifically targeting Poland, saying the incident occurred during strikes on Ukraine. But Rutte called Russia’s actions “reckless and unacceptable,” whether intentional or not — a view shared by U.S. President Donald Trump.

A MISTAKE

“Perhaps it was a mistake,” Trump said. “But I am not happy about this whole situation. But hopefully it’s going come to an end.”

On Saturday, Polish and allied aircraft were again deployed due to a renewed threat of drone strikes in western Ukraine, though no incursion was reported this time.

Romania also reported a drone entering its airspace during a Russian attack on Ukrainian infrastructure, prompting it to scramble two F-16 fighter jets.

Rutte stressed that NATO’s new mission, dubbed Eastern Sentry, is designed to demonstrate the alliance’s resolve and ability to defend its territory.

French Rafale fighters, Danish F-16s, a Danish frigate, and ground-based defense systems have already been pledged for the operation amid wider concerns that the war in Ukraine could escalate into a broader conflict.

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