Ahead of upcoming NATO consultations regarding repeated Russian incursions into its airspace, German parliamentary representatives are advocating for a robust response. Jürgen Hardt, the CDU’s spokesperson for foreign policy, stated to the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland that a clear deterrent is needed from the Kremlin.
Hardt asserted that a demonstrable response to any military border violations, potentially including the interception and destruction of Russian fighter jets within NATO airspace, is the only way to convey a decisive message to Moscow. He cautioned that the trajectory of escalation could lead to further provocations, citing a progression from airspace violations to targeted attacks and potential military deployments.
Siemtje Möller, SPD’s parliamentary group vice and defense expert, echoed the call for strengthened measures. She urged NATO to discuss expanding its air surveillance capabilities along its eastern flank during the upcoming consultations. Möller referenced recent incidents, highlighting deficiencies in current defenses and suggesting a possible reinforcement of existing “Air Policing” operations in the Baltic states, similar to actions taken following the Poland incident. She expressed hope for a resolute, yet measured, reaction from the alliance.