NATO’s Air Defense Shield: Who in Ukraine Will Actually Be Protected?
FILE PHOTO: The logo of NATO is seen at a meeting of the North Atlantic Council in the NATO defence ministers' session together with Sweden as the invitee, at the Alliance's headquarters in Brussels, Belgium February 15, 2024. REUTERS/Johanna Geron/File Photo
In recent weeks, Europe has faced an unprecedented wave of Russian provocations — from drones over Denmark, Poland, and Romania to fighter jets over Estonia, and suspected cyberattacks on major airports, including London Heathrow. Western analysts warn that these actions aim to test NATO’s readiness, particularly the Alliance’s European members, to defend their airspace.
This is reported by The Telegraph.
The publication notes that the number of drones shot down by allied forces over Poland was significantly lower than the effectiveness demonstrated by Ukrainian air defenses. This has only heightened doubts about Europe’s ability to respond to Kremlin threats.
One potential response currently being discussed by Western politicians and military officials is the creation of an air defense shield over western Ukraine to intercept Russian missiles and drones.
“In the future, this shield — effectively a no-fly zone — could be extended to Kyiv,” the publication emphasizes.
At the same time, the publication notes that “British fighter jets have already intercepted Iranian drones and missiles heading towards Israel.” In other words, the practice of such operations already exists and could be extended to the Ukrainian theater.
Analysts point out that, since the Russian air campaign relies on drones and long-range missiles launched from deep within Russian territory, such an operation would not carry a risk of confrontation with the Russian military. At the same time, it would serve as proof that Europe is willing to take risks and respond decisively.
“It would also provide real support to Ukraine in the war. Most importantly, it would send a clear signal to Putin: if Russia creates dilemmas for the West, Europe can — and will — do the same for Russia,” The Telegraph concludes.
As reported, this week in Copenhagen, EU leaders will meet to discuss new defense initiatives. The focus will be on the “drone wall” project and measures to strengthen the security of Europe’s eastern flank. The need for such solutions has increased after numerous violations of NATO airspace by Russian drones and aircraft.