Germany Expands NATO Air Patrols, Boosts Ukraine Support After Russian Drone Incursion in Poland

Germany is significantly increasing its commitment to NATO's eastern flank by doubling its fighter jet patrols over Poland from two to four aircraft and extending the mission through the end of December. This move follows an unprecedented incursion of 19 Russian drones into Polish airspace, which Poland responded to by shooting down several drones, prompting widespread condemnation and concern among NATO and EU allies. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the drone violations as a serious threat to European peace and criticized NATO's air defense for not performing as effectively as needed, signaling imminent discussions within NATO and the EU to enhance defense readiness. In addition to bolstering air patrols, Germany plans to intensify support for Ukraine and advocate for the rapid adoption of the European Union's 19th sanctions package against Russia. The Kremlin denies responsibility for the drone incursions, but Polish officials view the attack as a test of NATO's response mechanisms. Other NATO members, including the Netherlands, have also increased their defensive measures on the alliance's eastern border in recent weeks.