NATO’s “Eastern Sentry” mission is launched in Poland following a Russian drone breach
NATO has vowed to defend all allied territory and began Operation Eastern Sentry in response to Russian drones entering Polish airspace.
After Russian drones were reported to have violated Polish airspace earlier this week, NATO announced on Friday the start of a new mission to fortify Europe’s eastern border.
The incursion was denounced as “reckless and unacceptable” by Alliance Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who emphasized that NATO would not stand for any infringement on allied territory. Operation Eastern Sentry is the code name for the new mission, which will launch a variety of assets across integrated air and ground sites on Friday night.
Denmark, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany have already committed forces and resources to the operation, according to Rutte, and more member states are anticipated to join in the days ahead.
NATO’s collective defense stance was reaffirmed by General Alexus Grynkewich, the alliance’s Supreme Allied Commander, who said that NATO would “defend every inch” of its territory.
Grynkewich continued, “Our swift action earlier this week and our important announcement here today should reassure Poland and citizens from throughout the Alliance.”
The action is a reflection of NATO’s increased attention to detail as tensions along its eastern borders continue to rise, especially in the wake of Russia’s continued military actions in the area.
