NATO strengthens eastern flank defenses as Russia and Belarus begin joint military exercises

NATO is reinforcing its eastern flank defenses with a new operation called "Eastern Sentinel" following a Russian drone incursion into Polish airspace. The operation involves air and ground defenses from Denmark, France, the UK, and Germany, aiming to reassure Poland and the alliance. This occurs as Russia and Belarus begin joint military exercises. The Zapad-2025 exercises are the first since the Ukraine conflict began, raising concerns for neighboring NATO states, though Russia states they are routine and not targeted.