A more dynamic response to its actions, which will include the development of armed along the border with the relaxation of the rules of engagement so that fire can be opened against Russian aircraft, the governments of its members is being considered, according to a Financial Times report.
Talks have already begun for the “Allied response”, with the logic of scenarios being considered to increase the cost of the “hybrid” for Moscow and defining clear countermeasures. The discussions began after a series of airspace violations by Russian drones and jets, according to four NATO officials informed of the talks.
Who are discussing and what
The states of the front line bordering Russia, with the support of France and the United Kingdom, have begun discussions, which have since expanded to a larger group in the 32 members’ alliance.
The proposals discussed include surveillance drones that are normally used to collect information on Russian military activities, but also making the reaction of pilots patrolling the eastern border. There are also discussions about the NATO military exercises on the border with Russia, especially in more remote and unattended parts of the border.
Donald Trump said last month that NATO forces should open fire on Russian aircraft violating allied territory.
The US president’s comments came after a series of Russian challenges, including the first direct confrontation between NATO aircraft and Russian drones from Russia’s complete invasion of Ukraine in 2022. In addition to this meeting in Polish airspace, Russian drones have also invaded Romanian Dronic Airplanes. space.
‘Urgent’ the relaxation of the rules of engagement
Matthew Whitacker, US ambassador to NATO, said last week that he is “working every day” with the allies to ensure that “we have better choices in this asymmetric … and a hybrid war”. He said it is of prime importance “to ensure that there are several steps on the scale of escalating tension”.
Two NATO officials told the FTs that simplifying the rules of engagement along the east side is urgent. Some countries require fighter pilots to have a visual confirmation of threats before engaging, while others allow them to open fire on the basis of radar data or the speed of the hostile object.
NATO’s discussions come as the EU is preparing to take its own measures in response to Russian challenges.
