Canada has taken a firm diplomatic stance against Moscow after several Russian drones breached Polish airspace earlier this week. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand confirmed that Ottawa summoned Russian Ambassador Oleg Stepanov on Wednesday to deliver a strong reprimand over the incursion.
The incident, which occurred between Tuesday and Wednesday, saw multiple drones cross into Poland, prompting NATO allies to shoot some of them down. Canada has not confirmed whether it played a direct role in the interceptions.
Moscow and its ally Belarus have attempted to downplay the breach, suggesting it may have been the result of network jamming. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte dismissed this explanation, calling the episode a reckless act regardless of intent.
Minister Anand said she spoke with Rutte on Friday morning and emphasized Canada’s willingness to support NATO’s efforts to strengthen defences along the alliance’s eastern flank.
Carleton University professor Stephen Saideman noted that Canada has already increased its contribution to NATO operations in the region and suggested that further discussions are underway to determine where Ottawa can provide additional support.