EU, NATO Face Russian Criticism Over Drone Defense as Ukraine Conflict Drags On
The European Union (EU) and NATO have drawn criticism from Moscow for their focus on the perceived drone threat from Russia, three and a half years into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Meanwhile, both Russian and Ukrainian forces claim territorial gains in eastern Ukraine, sparking safety concerns around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
In response to recent drone disruptions in Denmark, the EU has pledged €2 billion for Ukrainian drone production and is working with Ukraine and NATO to create a defensive 'drone wall' to protect eastern member states. This project, known as Eastern Flank Watch, involves a broad coalition of EU front-line states along Russia's border, including Germany, France, the UK, Sweden, Finland, and the Baltic states.
Russia has denied involvement in the Danish drone incidents but continues to use drones to strike Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. Both sides claim to have gained ground in different parts of eastern Ukraine, raising alarm about the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, has sent experts to Copenhagen to participate in joint exercises and contribute to the development of the drone wall.
The EU's commitment to bolstering Ukraine's drone production capacity and creating a defensive drone wall signals a collective effort to enhance security along its eastern border. Despite Russia's denials, the EU and its allies remain vigilant against potential aerial threats, with Ukraine and NATO collaborating closely on this initiative.
