Russia’s ambassador to the UK has been summoned to the Foreign Office following Vladimir Putin’s drone incursions into NATO territories.
Last week, the Russian forces triggered a crisis by flying drones into Poland, and on Sunday, Romania reported a similar violation. These events represent a significant escalation that could potentially lead to direct confrontation with Russia, involving allies like the UK.
The UK Foreign Office summoned Andrei Kelin, the Russian ambassador, on Monday. In a statement, the Foreign Office expressed strong condemnation, calling the drone violations in Polish and NATO airspace unacceptable.
The UK, along with Poland, Romania, Ukraine, and other NATO Allies, unequivocally denounced Russia’s actions. The UK emphasized the importance of defending Ukraine against Putin’s aggression for the security of Europe, including the UK, amidst Russia’s irresponsible behavior.
In a warning to Putin, the UK government affirmed NATO’s unwavering stance against Russia’s actions. NATO is enhancing its defenses along the eastern flank with advanced technologies like counter-drone sensors and weapons, indicating a robust response to any further aggression by Russia.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas labeled the incursion in Romania as “another unacceptable breach of an EU member state’s sovereignty.”
Following the incidents in Poland and Romania, NATO was requested to invoke Article 4 of the treaty by Warsaw, signaling a potential escalation. NATO responded swiftly by deploying F-16s after Russian drones intended for Ukrainian targets breached Romanian airspace.
Romania’s defense ministry reported a drone intrusion while Russia conducted drone strikes against Ukraine, intensifying tensions in the region.