Russia intensifies operations against NATO's eastern flank

Russia is increasingly conducting operations that affect the eastern flank of NATO, including drone incursions, airspace violations, and sabotage. Governments in Poland, Romania, and Moldova have stated they view these actions as intentional maneuvers by Moscow rather than mere hybrid warfare.

On September 24, 2026, a series of unprecedented incidents occurred. Moldova recorded four drone flights, two of which exploded on its territory, leading to a temporary closure of northern airspace. In Romania, two drones violated airspace, with one exploding in the north near Solka, causing the closure of a nearby border crossing to Ukraine. NATO fighter jets were also deployed in Romania following Russian attacks near the Danube Delta.

In Poland, NATO combat aircraft were activated twice due to Russian strikes near the border, and two border crossings were evacuated following drone attacks. Additionally, a fire broke out at a state-owned Starlink station near Warsaw, used for routing internet traffic, on the night of September 23, 2026.