Concerns are mounting as the Russia-Ukraine war enters its fourth year, with indications of a potential expansion across Europe. The involvement of military forces from various nations signifies a shift beyond a bilateral conflict. While the US and European allies have supported Ukraine with aid and weaponry, recent events suggest a more direct engagement.
Russian drones have been observed penetrating European borders. Following the detection of Russian drones in Polish airspace, two British fighter jets initiated a defense mission over Poland. This operation, which aligns with NATO’s commitment to collective security, included a statement from former Defence Secretary John Healey, emphasizing a unified response to threats. This action indicates the activation of NATO’s collective defense mechanism, where an attack on one member is considered an attack on all.
This mission was carried out under NATO’s Operation Eastern Centry, which aims to reinforce the eastern flank of Europe following Poland’s interception of Russian drones. Further incursions have been observed with a Russian drone intercepted over Romania, and three Russian jets spending 12 minutes in Estonian airspace.