NATO on Friday announced the launch of a new mission aimed at strengthening Europe’s eastern flank, following reports of Russian drones violating Polish airspace earlier in the week.
The Secretary-General of the Alliance, Mark Rutte, condemned the incursion as both “reckless and unacceptable,” stressing that NATO would not tolerate any violation of allied territory. The new mission, codenamed Operation Eastern Sentry, will begin on Friday evening, deploying a mix of assets across integrated air and ground bases.
Rutte confirmed that Denmark, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany have already committed forces and resources to the operation, while other member states are expected to join in the coming days.
NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander, General Alexus Grynkewich, reinforced the alliance’s position on collective defence, declaring that NATO would “defend every inch” of its territory.
“Poland and citizens from across the Alliance should be assured by our rapid response earlier this week and our significant announcement here today,” Grynkewich added.
The move reflects NATO’s heightened vigilance as tensions continue to escalate along its eastern borders, particularly in the wake of Russia’s ongoing military activities in the region.
Melissa Enoch
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