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NATO Airspace Breached: Drones Crash into Latvia
8 May
Summary
- Oil tanks damaged by drone debris near Russian border.
- Latvia deployed military jets to respond to airspace alerts.
- Residents express fear and consider leaving their homes.
Four empty oil tanks sustained damage in Rezekne, Latvia, approximately 40 km from the Russian border. Debris consistent with a crashed drone was discovered at the site, following reports of blasts heard by residents. Latvian authorities issued drone alerts along the Russian border on Thursday morning, advising residents to stay indoors.
In response to the alert, French military jets participating in the NATO Baltic air police mission in Lithuania were dispatched. Latvian officials emphasized that airspace defense is a shared responsibility among allied partners, particularly given the proximity to Russia.
This event follows similar incidents in late March where stray Ukrainian military drones, believed to be targeting Russia, landed in Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania. The Baltic states, strong supporters of Ukraine, have consistently stated their territories are not used for attacks against Russia.
Residents in Rezekne expressed significant fear and anger due to the drone incident, with some considering evacuation. The Minister of Defence of neighboring Lithuania called for enhanced NATO anti-drone defense in the region, citing the immediate and real threat posed by drones crashing into NATO territory.
