NATO Launches ‘Eastern Sentry’ toolster Eastern Flank After Russian Drone Incursion!

Sele Media Africa
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Reported by Amos Dachung – Sele Media Africa Reporter
September 13, 2025

NATO Launches ‘Eastern Sentry’ toolster Eastern Flank After Russian Drone Incursion

BRUSSELS — In a decisive move to reinforce its eastern defenses, NATO has initiated Operation Eastern Sentry following a significant breach of Polish airspace by Russian drones earlier this week. The incursion, involving 19 unarmed drones, marks the most substantial violation of NATO territory since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. [1]

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte condemned the drone activity as “reckless and unacceptable,” emphasizing the alliance’s unwavering commitment to defending its territory. “We must, as NATO, make clear our resolve and our ability to defend our territory, and that is exactly what Eastern Sentry is designed to do,” Rutte stated during a press conference in Brussels. [2]

The operation will see the deployment of a range of military assets from member states, including French Rafale fighter jets, Danish F-16s, Eurofighter jets, and a Danish frigate. These forces aim to enhance air and ground-based defenses, improve communication across NATO’s eastern flank, and ensure rapid response capabilities. [3]U.S. Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich, NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, highlighted the operation’s focus on adaptability and strategic deterrence. “Eastern Sentry will be flexible and agile, delivering even more focused deterrence and defense exactly when and where needed,” he remarked. [4]

While Russia has claimed the drone incursions were unintentional, Polish officials have dismissed this assertion, labeling the actions as deliberate provocations. Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski have called for a firm response, with Poland invoking NATO’s Article 4 to convene consultations on the perceived threat. [5]

The launch of Operation Eastern Sentry underscores NATO’s commitment to collective defense and its readiness to respond to emerging threats along its borders.

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Citations:
1.⁠ ⁠The Guardian: www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/sep/12/poland-russia-drones-ukraine-war-latest-news-europe-live?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2.⁠ ⁠Reuters: www.reuters.com/world/europe/nato-launches-eastern-sentry-bolster-eastern-flank-after-russian-drone-incursion-2025-09-12/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3.⁠ ⁠The Washington Post: www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/09/12/russia-ukraine-poland-drones-sanctions-rafale/1230668c-8fc1-11f0-8260-0712daa5c125_story.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4.⁠ ⁠Al Jazeera: www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/9/12/nato-announces-plan-to-strengthen-europes-eastern-flank?utm_source=chatgpt.com
5.⁠ ⁠The Washington Post: www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/09/12/trump-russia-poland-drones-nato/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

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David Joshua Oliver

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Oliver David Joshua is a seasoned media professional with a passion for impactful journalism and strategic leadership. As the Managing Director and Editor-In-Chief of Sele Media Africa, he oversees the organization’s editorial vision, ensuring high standards of truth, balance, and bold reporting. Known for his sharp editorial eye and commitment to excellence, Oliver plays a key role in shaping the voice of Sele Media Africa across the continent. His leadership continues to drive innovation, credibility, and growth in Africa’s digital media space.

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