Tensions are soaring across Europe as NATO debates whether to give its forces more freedom to shoot down Russian aircraft.
The alliance has been grappling with a series of drone and fighter jet incursions along its eastern borders, prompting calls from member states for a stronger, more decisive response.
Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, chairman of NATO’s military committee, confirmed that expanding air defence options is under consideration.
“All these incidents are still under investigation,” he said, stressing that determining responsibility is crucial before taking action.
“Air defence could be an option depending on the final assessment. It’s one of several measures, but not the only one.”
Rising Calls From Eastern Europe for Immediate Action
Recent “hybrid attacks” have alarmed European leaders, with Poland leading the charge.
After intercepting several Russian drones, Warsaw announced plans for faster legislation allowing the military more operational freedom.
Latvia is echoing similar concerns. President Edgars Rinkevics told Estonia’s ERR broadcaster, “We rely on air policing now, but it’s time to shift to a full air defence mission.”
Leaders in other Baltic nations are pushing NATO to strengthen its deterrence posture in the face of repeated violations of their airspace.
Russia Issues Dire Warnings
Moscow has issued chilling warnings, saying that shooting down Russian planes would constitute an act of war.
Despite this, Western leaders are signaling a firmer stance.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump urged NATO members to shoot down intruding aircraft if necessary, a sentiment echoed by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.
Britain, France, and Germany have made it clear that they are prepared to act.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey stated, “Our Typhoons are fully equipped to take out Russian drones that enter NATO airspace. We will not hesitate to act.”
Sweden Reconsiders Military Posture
Sweden, historically neutral, is even weighing the development of nuclear weapons as a deterrent against Russian aggression.
Jimmie Akesson, leader of the Sweden Democrats, told Goteborgs-Posten, “Everything should be on the table in this situation.”
Airspace Incursions and Drone Activity Escalate
Across Europe, Russian aircraft and drones have repeatedly violated Polish, Romanian, and Estonian airspace.
Airports and military bases in Denmark, Lithuania, Sweden, and Norway have reported suspicious drone activity, with more sightings over the past weekend.
Earlier this month, the German frigate Hamburg was buzzed by Russian reconnaissance planes over the Baltic, and dozens of drones entered Poland, some targeting the Lask air base housing U.S. F-35s.
Lieutenant Colonel Gaetano Farina, commander of NATO’s air policing mission, confirmed that MiG-31 jets entered Estonian airspace on September 19 but were intercepted en route to Tallinn.
Strengthening Defence Across Europe
Denmark has temporarily banned civilian drones during high-level summits to reduce risks of confusion with enemy drones.
Germany deployed troops equipped with anti-drone technology, while the Hamburg frigate bolsters protection in the Baltic.
Poland has reinforced its border with 7,000 troops and, together with the Baltic states, plans a “drone wall” of radars, sensors, and air defence systems. EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen called the initiative “the bedrock of credible defence.”
Britain has pledged to mass-produce drones to support the region and assist Ukraine’s defence efforts.
EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius added that the first components of this defensive network should be operational within a year.