NATO condemns Russia for airspace violations and drone incidents

Published Aug 12, 02:25 PM UTC

NATO allies met on Wednesday to condemn Russia for repeated airspace breaches in Poland and Romania, as well as drone incidents across the alliance. In a statement, allies said they stand 'united and resolute' in defending NATO territory. The meeting followed a series of incidents, including an explosive-laden drone found near a Ukrainian cargo aircraft at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany, which forced a DHL cargo plane to abort landing. German officials described it as a 'hybrid threat.' Earlier, Poland scrambled fighter jets after a Russian Kh101 missile entered its airspace and crashed near the Ukrainian border. NATO stated Russia 'bears full responsibility' and that the violations demonstrate 'Russia’s increasing tolerance for risk.' The alliance has labeled Moscow a long-term threat to Euro-Atlantic security.