NATO Allies at Odds Over How to Respond to Russia’s Threats

Sweden’s Defence Minister Pal Jonson, left, and Boris Pistorius in Berlin, on Sept. 23.Photographer: John Macdougall/AFP/Getty Images

NATO allies are struggling to coordinate a response to Russian airspace violations, with partners in the defense alliance openly contradicting each other.

On Tuesday evening, Germany warned against the risks of shooting down Russian aircraft, while US President Donald Trump almost simultaneously showed he’s open to a more aggressive stance, backed by Poland and Baltic states. On Monday, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk threatened to shoot down aerial threats and stated there is “no room for discussion” about the policy.