Russia attacked Poland with 21 drones, prompting NATO to take emergency measures. Polish forces shot down all Russian drones on the night of September 9–10, 2025, and Prime Minister Donald Tusk invoked Article 4 of the NATO Treaty. Following consultations, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced the creation of Eastern Sentry. “The Black Sea is of vital strategic importance to NATO. What Romania does to keep it safe and free is crucial,” Rutte emphasized during his visit to Bucharest for the NATO-Industry Forum on November 5–6, 2025.
Eastern Sentry is a military operation involving a flexible mission launched by NATO to strengthen the alliance’s eastern flank.
American General Alexus G. Grynkewich, Supreme Commander of NATO in Europe, stated that NATO deployed ground forces in eight countries. NATO allies began announcing the deployment of forces and military capabilities along the eastern flank: Denmark – deployed two F-16 aircraft and an anti-air frigate. France – deployed three Rafale aircraft. Germany – deployed four Eurofighter aircraft. United Kingdom – expressed willingness to provide support; officials are finalizing details. British Defense Secretary John Healey mentioned that the army explored options, including potentially deploying up to six Typhoon aircraft.
NATO mobilized further forces in the air, on the ground, and at sea, stretching from the Arctic to the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. NATO emphasized that the mission does not rely on fixed deployments but rotates resources based on emerging threats, making it difficult for Russia to anticipate the alliance’s movements.
This NATO action shows that allies stand ready to respond collectively if Russia attacks another member state. NATO essentially activated Article 5 of the treaty, which stipulates that “an attack against one ally is considered an attack against all.” Russia tested whether the Alliance would commit to a direct war, and the response shows clearly that it would. “Our reaction would be devastating. I don’t think it will happen, but if it does, if Russia or anyone else attacks Romania, Romania will be supported by all 31 other NATO countries. All will defend Romania with the full power of NATO’s collective capabilities, including navy, aircraft, and ground forces. They won’t do it because they know they cannot win,” confirmed Mark Rutte from Bucharest.
NATO launched “Eastern Sentinel” as a coherent measure to strengthen the eastern flank and respond to the new challenges posed by Russia. The initiative demonstrates the allies’ solidarity, precisely what Russia sought to undermine.
The NATO Secretary General thanked Romania for supporting the Republic of Moldova and emphasized that he shares the “sense of urgency” expressed by Romanian President Nicusor Dan regarding hybrid threats from Russia.
Romania, as a key ally, has served as a NATO member for more than two decades and has actively participated in missions both within and beyond the alliance.