“This incursion is part of a wider pattern of increasingly irresponsible Russian behaviour,” the statement said. “Russia bears full responsibility for these actions, which are escalatory, risk miscalculation and endanger lives. They must stop.”
This marks the second time in two weeks that the Council has convened under Article 4, after meeting on 10 September to discuss the large-scale violation of Polish airspace by Russian drones. Several other allies, including Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Romania, have also recently reported airspace violations by Russia, with NATO expressing full solidarity with affected members.
NATO said its response to Russia’s actions will remain robust, citing the launch of “Eastern Sentry” on 12 September to strengthen posture along the Eastern flank. The alliance confirmed it would reinforce its capabilities and bolster deterrence and defence, including through enhanced air defence measures.
“Russia should be in no doubt: NATO and Allies will employ, in accordance with international law, all necessary military and non-military tools to defend ourselves and deter all threats from all directions,” the statement added. “Our commitment to Article 5 is ironclad.”
Allies reiterated that Russia’s actions will not deter them from their commitment to support Ukraine. NATO said Ukraine’s security contributes to that of the alliance, as it continues to exercise its inherent right to self-defence against Russia’s war of aggression.
Source: NATO.
