Five European nations request monetary aid to secure border defenses

In a series of recent developments, European ministers have expressed growing concerns over increasing security threats and the ongoing issue of hybrid warfare.

The Minister of Defense of Poland, in a striking statement, described a recent drone incident as a direct provocation by Russia, particularly at a time when peace talks on Ukraine are underway. The Russian military drone, identified as a likely Russian version of the Iranian Shahed drone, equipped with a Chinese engine, crashed and exploded in eastern Poland, approximately 100 kilometers from the Ukrainian border.

This incident, which occurred near residential areas and caused damage to nearby houses, has prompted the ministers to seek means to counter enemy drones. In response, they are considering purchasing drones for border control and developing air surveillance systems.

The eastern border is a concern for the entire European Union, according to the heads of the Interior Ministries of Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Finland, and Estonia. They believe that previous aid has strengthened border control and improved migration management, but the threat level is rising.

Incidents involving drones, some of which carry explosives, have become more frequent. For instance, a drone recently crashed on a cornfield in the Lublin Voivodeship of Poland and exploded. Similarly, an explosive device was found in a drone that flew from Belarus to Lithuania. Lithuania believes a disoriented Ukrainian air defense is the most likely reason for a foreign drone entering its territory again.

The ministers are united in their belief that current resources for border control are no longer sufficient due to the rising threat level. They have requested additional funds from the European Commission to address these security concerns across Europe.

The ministers also emphasise that without joint investments, the security of all of Europe is at risk. They point to hybrid warfare, encompassing migratory pressure, cyberattacks, arson, sabotage against critical infrastructure, and violations of airspace, as an ongoing issue for over four years.

Flights were temporarily suspended at Vilnius Airport due to a drone incident, underscoring the potential disruption these threats can cause. The ministers are working diligently to address these challenges and ensure the safety and security of their citizens.