The drone incursion into Poland must serve as a wake-up call.
Crucially, NATO — or, more likely, a coalition of select allies — should consider extending its air defense air umbrella into western Ukraine to help Kyiv’s forces shoot down Russian drones and missiles. This move might draw on the plans of the British- and French-led “coalition of the willing,” which has promised postwar security guarantees for Ukraine. Though complex to execute, this would demonstrate seriousness to the Kremlin.
America’s role will be key here. And during its ongoing force posture review, the Pentagon should think twice before reducing U.S. military presence in Europe — its top trading partner.
U.S. defense officials are right to prioritize the threat from China, but as Europe undertakes a years-long process of rearmament, Washington must take care not to leave capability gaps that risk inviting aggression. Instead, it should signal unwavering commitment by maintaining a robust forward presence.
The incident in Poland also provides good reason to revisit the question of terminating the outdated NATO-Russia Founding Act of 1997, clearing the way for permanent rather than rotational deployments in eastern flank countries.
Additionally, the Trump administration should drop its prohibition on Ukraine using U.S. missiles and targeting data for strikes inside Russia. In concert, it should provide Kyiv with as many long-range missiles as possible, including ones that can reach key military-industrial sites deep inside Russia, such as the plants producing Gerbera and Shahed-type drones.
Finally, Washington and European allies should apply overwhelming economic power to deny Putin the money he needs to wage war in the first place. This should include new secondary sanctions targeting Russia’s oil export revenue, as they would likely have greater impact than tariffs — which have so far failed to halt purchases of Russian oil and face competing objectives in trade talks.
This week’s incursion is a reminder that deterrence must be continually maintained. Thankfully, this provocation resulted in no loss of life, but the next one could be deadly.