Stop Moscow Now or Pay Later: Why NATO Must Act

The Kremlin has described NATO's plan to shoot down Russian aircraft that violate the Alliance's airspace as ‘dangerous’. In reality, what is dangerous is that Moscow continues to test the West's resolve. Every intrusion, whether by fighter jets, bombers or drones, is a calculated act of intimidation against the West. It aims to weaken deterrence, normalise aggression and project Russian power at the expense of Western security.

Let us be clear: defending NATO airspace is not an escalation, it is self-defence, based on international law and essential to the survival of the free world. If Russia deliberately crosses the red line, it will have to face the consequences. Any other behaviour would only encourage further provocations.

The West cannot afford to hesitate. Security is the foundation of freedom. Without it, the values that define us are vulnerable to authoritarian regimes. Backing down now would not only embolden Moscow, but also send a frightening message to Beijing and others who seek to challenge Western power.

This is not just about military manoeuvres, but also about strategic credibility. The transatlantic alliance is the backbone of the world order. If it leaves violations unanswered, its rivals will exploit that weakness. If it responds with strength, unity and clarity, it will preserve both peace and prosperity.

The Kremlin thrives on weakness of the West, but the West thrives on determination. NATO must not yield. Protecting our airspace means protecting the very essence of Western civilisation: freedom, prosperity and unity.