Russia sent drones to Poland on Sept. 9, testing how fast the drones were shot down; but Russia said they were meant for Ukraine, and it was accidental that they ended up in Poland. There has been much concern about whether this was true because of previous offenses, and many are wondering what Russia has learned or gained from sending the drones into Poland’s territory.

Shortly after the invasion, NATO held an emergency meeting, discussing plans and an appropriate course of action. The organization decided not to declare war on Russia; however, a strict warning was sent out to Russia regarding the consequences of another violation. 

Surprisingly, Russia has violated air space agreements multiple times very recently, yet it was not nearly as publicized as the recent events in Poland. The German news site, Deutsche Welle, reported that a “Russian jet was spotted over Estonia last week, which came shortly after Russian drones were shot down over Poland and spotted over Romania.” 

Because of these violations, much of the focus has shifted to what Russia is gaining by completing these invasions. A common theory is that Russia is attempting to test the reaction time of a coordinated response and to possibly destabilize that coordinated response. 

The popular news site Reuters reported that  “Western officials [said] Russia was testing the alliance’s readiness and resolve.” NATO’s response to the drones and similar situations has been quite organized and quick, with the last drone shot down at around 6:45 a.m. on Sept. 10, and warnings were sent out to Russia the same day.

With Russia increasingly pressuring NATO’s defense and alignment, it is likely they are gathering information to plan for the future. Russia has been heavily warned about any further possible violations, sending the message that NATO is alert and ready to defend its territories.

Article by Sol Eclipse