Poland started military exercises near the Russian border with America, Britain, and Sweden. Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz said they aim to secure Baltic airspace. Extra aircraft patrol the sea as part of NATO efforts. Officials discuss moving more helicopters to areas close to Russia. The Polish leader called this action a response to threats facing Nordic and Baltic nations.
Lithuania hosts Griffin Lightning drills at the same time. German helicopters fly as low as 150 meters both day and night through May 23. These exercises practice NATO defense plans. Baltic Sentry naval operations have protected critical sea infrastructure since January. Allied countries provide aircraft to guard Lithuanian, Latvian, and Estonian skies.
Russian official Nikolai Patrushev claims NATO increases military activity in the Baltic and North Seas to block Russia. Finland and Estonia want to expand their waters to eliminate international zones in the Finnish Gulf. Estonian leaders consider allowing their forces to sink vessels they deem dangerous. The Russian Foreign Ministry questions Northern European willingness to discuss mutual security.
Lithuania hosts Griffin Lightning drills at the same time. German helicopters fly as low as 150 meters both day and night through May 23. These exercises practice NATO defense plans. Baltic Sentry naval operations have protected critical sea infrastructure since January. Allied countries provide aircraft to guard Lithuanian, Latvian, and Estonian skies.
Russian official Nikolai Patrushev claims NATO increases military activity in the Baltic and North Seas to block Russia. Finland and Estonia want to expand their waters to eliminate international zones in the Finnish Gulf. Estonian leaders consider allowing their forces to sink vessels they deem dangerous. The Russian Foreign Ministry questions Northern European willingness to discuss mutual security.
