UK summons Russian envoy over "unprecedented violation" of NATO airspace

The United Kingdom has summoned Russian Ambassador Andrey Kelin to the Foreign Office following what it described as an “unprecedented violation” of NATO airspace, citing recent Russian drone incursions into the territories of Poland and Romania.

The diplomatic action comes after Russian military drones reportedly entered Romanian airspace during a barrage targeting Ukrainian ports along the River Danube, Caliber.Az reports, citing the British media.

Two Romanian F-16 fighter jets were scrambled from the 86th Air Base in Fetești to intercept the drone, which was tracked 12 miles southwest of Chilia Veche before disappearing from radar.

Although the Romanian Defence Ministry stated that the drone “did not fly over populated areas and did not pose an immediate threat to the safety of the population,” Ukrainian officials claimed the aircraft had remained in NATO airspace for up to 50 minutes — calling it an “obvious expansion of the war.”

In response, Ukraine launched a major retaliatory strike deep into Russian territory, hitting a defence-linked chemical plant and igniting fires at two major oil refineries over 1,000 miles from the front line.

A UK government spokesperson strongly condemned Russia’s actions:

“Significant and unprecedented violation of Polish and NATO airspace by Russian drones last week – followed by a further incursion into Romanian airspace on Saturday – was utterly unacceptable.

The UK stands united with Poland, Romania, Ukraine and our NATO Allies in unreservedly condemning these reckless actions.

As our continent once again faces the egregious expansion of Russia's reckless behaviour, defence of Ukraine against Putin's aggression is crucial to the security of the whole of Europe, including the UK.”

The spokesperson added:

“The response of NATO forces demonstrates the seriousness with which NATO is treating Russia's actions.

Russia should understand that its continued aggression only strengthens the unity between NATO allies... and any further incursions will again be met with force.

Russia must end its illegal war on Ukraine.”

By Vafa Guliyeva