There are no security guarantees from Russia’s modern warfare against Europe. The new type of aggression is not fought with tanks and infantry in the traditional sense, says Andrii Kovalenko, head of the Ukrainian Center for Countering Disinformation.
On the night of 10 September, 19 Russian drones violated Polish airspace via Ukraine. Polish air defenses shot down only 3–4, despite deploying advanced F‑35 fighters. Most drones were intercepted over Ukrainian territory. This marked the first large-scale Russian drone attack on a NATO country.
Shortly after, three Russian MiG‑31s entered Estonian airspace without permission for several minutes. NATO countries warned Russia that they are ready to respond forcefully, including shooting down aircraft violating borders.
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned that any attempt to target objects in Russian airspace would be “seriously regretted,” TASS reports.
Solution against modern warfare
Kovalenko stresses that modern warfare is now air and drones. True security comes only from a strong army and alliances with nations capable of fighting modern wars.
“In Europe, that country is only Ukraine,” he says.
Meanwhile, there is also no guarantee that Russia won’t launch a full-scale war after hybrid attacks on European cities.
Russia’s hidden war against Europe
Politico expert Ivo Daalder, former US ambassador to NATO, notes in his article for Politico that Russia does not have the resources to fully subdue Ukraine by force. The Kremlin’s current strategy relies on weakening European support for Ukraine and exploiting divisions within and between NATO countries.
Essential actions for European security
Nevertheless, Russian attacks can be reduced. One solution, supported by Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski, is to expand NATO defenses by intercepting drones and missiles over Ukrainian territory.
Europe must clearly warn that any further Russian intrusion into European airspace, territory, or maritime zones will trigger military retaliation.
Finally, Europe should provide Ukraine with the ability to strike critical logistics hubs and military support facilities in Russia.
“Europe is at war with Russia, whether it likes it or not. It’s high time to recognize this reality and act accordingly,” Daalder concludes.