What's happened
Recent incidents involving Russian drones entering NATO airspace have heightened tensions in Eastern Europe. Romania and Latvia reported drone incursions during ongoing military operations in Ukraine, prompting calls for enhanced air defense measures among NATO allies. The situation underscores the growing risks along NATO's eastern flank amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Moscow Times, Romania's Defense Ministry confirmed the detection of a Russian drone, leading to the deployment of F-16 jets and alerts to residents. Latvian President Edgars Rinkevičs emphasized the need for collective action among NATO allies, stating, 'The number of such incidents is increasing along the Eastern flank of NATO.' The Telegraph noted that both Romania and Latvia are investigating the incidents, with Latvia's Defense Minister calling for strengthened border defenses. Politico highlighted that these drone incursions are part of a broader pattern of Russian military activity that poses ongoing risks to NATO's eastern members.
How we got here
The drone incursions come amid escalating military actions in Ukraine, where Russia has intensified its attacks. NATO members, particularly those in Eastern Europe, have been increasingly concerned about security threats posed by Russian military activities since the invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.
More on these topics
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The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, also called the North Atlantic Alliance, is an intergovernmental military alliance between 30 North American and European countries.
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Romania is a country located at the crossroads of Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe. It shares land borders with Bulgaria to the south, Ukraine to the north, Hungary to the west, Serbia to the southwest, and Moldova to the east and has its opening
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Latvia, officially known as the Republic of Latvia, is a country in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. Since Latvia’s independence in 1918, it has been referred to as one of the Baltic states.
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Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.