In the past few days, tensions between Russia and NATO have reached a new peak after multiple Russian drones entered the airspace of Poland and Romania. Both countries are NATO members, which makes these incidents highly sensitive and potentially dangerous for regional security. Today, fresh developments confirm that NATO is stepping up its response, while Moscow continues to deny responsibility.
Russian Drones Enter NATO Airspace
Over the weekend and into early this week, Polish defense systems reported several Russian drones crossing the country’s eastern borders. Some were intercepted and shot down, while others fell into Polish territory. In Warsaw, authorities confirmed that one drone flew dangerously close to government sites, including Belweder Palace. Two Belarusian nationals were detained in connection with drone activity near restricted areas.
At the same time, Romania reported a serious breach of its airspace. A Russian drone reportedly flew more than 10 kilometers inside Romanian territory and remained there for nearly 50 minutes. Romanian forces scrambled F-16 fighter jets to respond. Fortunately, no casualties or significant damage have been reported in either country, but the incidents highlight just how fragile the situation has become.
Poland Authorizes NATO Troops
In response, Polish President Karol Nawrocki signed a resolution today authorizing the deployment of NATO troops on Polish soil. This decision is directly tied to the increased drone incursions and marks a major shift in how Poland and the alliance are handling the threat. The mission, named Eastern Sentry, will include advanced air defense systems, additional surveillance, and joint military exercises with NATO partners.
Polish officials have also temporarily closed several airports during drone incursions to ensure civilian safety. The government reassured the public that all actions are precautionary and aimed at strengthening national security.
NATO Steps Up Its Defense
NATO leaders quickly backed Poland and Romania, stressing that the alliance will protect every inch of NATO territory. As part of this response, the United Kingdom announced it will send RAF Typhoon fighter jets to Poland to carry out air defense patrols. Other NATO countries are expected to contribute additional aircraft, missile defense systems, and intelligence support.
The activation of Article 4 consultations within NATO means that members are officially discussing the threat and preparing coordinated measures. While there is no indication yet of Article 5 – collective defense – being triggered, the alliance is clearly signaling to Moscow that further provocations will not go unanswered.
Russia’s Position
The Kremlin has reacted by accusing NATO of escalating the conflict. Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for President Vladimir Putin, stated today that NATO is “already at war with Russia” due to its support for Ukraine. Russia insists that some of the drones may have gone off course due to “technical errors,” a claim strongly rejected by Polish and Romanian authorities.
Despite Moscow’s denials, Western analysts believe the drone incursions are part of a deliberate strategy to test NATO’s defenses and political unity. By creating uncertainty, Russia may be hoping to weaken international support for Ukraine.
What This Means Going Forward
For now, the situation remains tense but under control. NATO forces are mobilizing, Polish citizens are being reassured, and Romania has increased patrols along its border. However, the latest developments mark the first time in the Ukraine war that NATO members have directly engaged with Russian drones in their own airspace.
The coming days will be critical. If further incursions occur, NATO’s response may escalate, bringing the alliance into closer confrontation with Russia. While a direct clash is still unlikely, the risk has never been higher since the start of the war.
For now, the message from NATO is clear: the alliance is united, prepared, and determined to defend its members against any threat.
