Russia’s envoy to the Foreign Office has been summoned following Vladimir Putin’s drone intrusions into NATO member states. The recent actions by Russia’s military have caused tensions after drones were downed in Poland and a similar incident was reported in Romania. These events represent a significant escalation that could potentially lead to direct confrontations involving allies like Britain.
Andrei Kelin, the Russian ambassador in London, was called in on Monday for discussions. The Foreign Office expressed strong condemnation, labeling the violations of Polish and NATO airspace by Russian drones as completely unacceptable. The UK, along with Poland, Romania, Ukraine, and other NATO allies, denounced these provocative acts and emphasized the importance of defending Ukraine against Russian aggression for the security of Europe, including the UK.
In a firm message directed at Putin, the UK government assured that NATO members would not be intimidated. NATO’s response highlighted the seriousness with which the alliance views Russia’s actions. Plans to enhance defenses along the eastern flank, utilizing advanced technologies like counter-drone sensors and weapons, were announced to deter future aggressive moves by Russia.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned the incursion into Romania as another violation of an EU member state’s sovereignty. Following the incidents in Poland and Romania, NATO was prompted to activate Article 4 of the treaty, signaling a potential escalation in NATO operations. In response to Russian drones entering Romanian airspace, the alliance deployed F-16s over the weekend amid ongoing drone attacks by Moscow on Ukraine.
The Romanian defense ministry reported a drone breach of their airspace while Russia continued its drone strikes on Ukraine. The situation remains tense as NATO and its allies stand united against further Russian aggression, emphasizing the need for Russia to cease its hostile actions towards Ukraine.