More NATO countries will move their troops and fighter jets eastwards in response to Wednesday's unprecedented Russian drone incursion into Polish airspace.
Denmark, France, and Germany have joined a new mission to bolster the military alliance's eastern flank. Other NATO allies are expected to take part later.
It came as the Kremlin said on Friday that peace talks with Kyiv were on 'pause', with spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating: 'You can't wear rose-tinted glasses and expect that the negotiation process will yield immediate results.'
Political tensions have been high across Europe after Poland reported that 19 Russian drones had flown through its airspace on Wednesday. Some were shot down, while others crashed into fields and even a house in eastern Poland.
Russia's military claimed it had 'no plans to target facilities' in Poland, but Polish and European leaders believe the incursion was deliberate.
The Danish defence ministry announced that Denmark will contribute two F-16 fighter jets and a warship to support Poland's air defence. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized Denmark's unwavering support for Poland, stating, 'We must not be naive. Putin will stop at nothing, and he is testing us.'
France will send three Rafale fighter jets while Germany will provide four Eurofighters. The UK also signaled its commitment to strengthening the Eastern Sentry, promising more details soon.
During a UN Security Council session in New York, European countries and the US reaffirmed their support for Poland, condemning the airspace violations. Acting US Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Shea declared that the US stands by NATO allies and will defend every inch of NATO territory.
Poland’s Secretary of State Marcin Bosacki showcased evidence of the drone incursions by displaying photos of one of the downed drones and a damaged house, reinforcing the view that this was no mistake.
The Netherlands and Czech Republic, alongside Germany, have also pledged to enhance air policing and defense measures along NATO's eastern borders.