Why Are Russian Aircraft Violating NATO Airspace?
Sep 30, 2025•22 min
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Episode description
NATO’s airspace is busy these days. And not in a good way. That’s especially true for member nations on the alliance’s eastern flank.
It’s not supposed to be that way. In recent weeks, states like Poland, Estonia, Romania, and Denmark have seen drones or other aircraft violate their airspace. In some cases, these airborne craft clearly identify they’re Russian in origin.
Multiple countries have called on NATO to consult about what to do next. So, what’s going on? What is Russia up to?
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It’s not supposed to be that way. In recent weeks, states like Poland, Estonia, Romania, and Denmark have seen drones or other aircraft violate their airspace. In some cases, these airborne craft clearly identify they’re Russian in origin.
Multiple countries have called on NATO to consult about what to do next. So, what’s going on? What is Russia up to?
Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.
See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.
NPR Privacy Policy
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