A NATO fighter jet has shot down a drone in Romanian airspace.

Litva has confirmed that Russia is considering launching attacks on critical infrastructure in Baltic countries using Ukrainian drones, a strategy aimed at obscuring its involvement in such operations. The information was disclosed by Lithuania's Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas during a briefing with media outlets, including the Lithuanian portal 15min. According to Kaunas, while there are no specific timelines for potential Russian actions, authorities are closely monitoring Moscow’s plans and exchanging intelligence with Poland and other NATO allies. He emphasized that they assess and track the level of threat posed by these possible moves. The reports suggest that Russia could deploy captured Ukrainian drones to create confusion over the origin of attacks and deny responsibility for strikes against NATO territory. This tactic would involve using fake Ukrainian drones under false flags, a scenario described by Kaunas as the most realistic possibility currently under consideration. Such an operation, referred to internally as “under the false flag,” would allow Moscow to test the solidarity of NATO members, particularly in light of ongoing tensions along the alliance’s eastern flank. This revelation comes amid growing concerns among Baltic states, Poland, Latvia, and Lithuania, that Russia might escalate hostilities through provocative actions. These fears have been reinforced by recent statements from Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, who warned that Moscow could plan provocations targeting critical infrastructure in Poland or the Baltic region. Such measures, he suggested, could serve as a means to challenge the unity of NATO and test the resolve of its members. Lithuania, which borders the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad and the Belarusian ally, has already strengthened security measures around key transportation and energy facilities. The country has been increasingly vigilant in response to perceived threats from Russia, especially given its proximity to both the Russian border and the Belarusian regime, which has historically aligned itself with Moscow. In reaction to the allegations, Russian officials have dismissed them as “horrible stories” designed to justify military escalation against Russia. A spokesperson for the Kremlin, Dmitry Peskov, stated that such claims were unfounded and served only to inflame tensions. Meanwhile, Polish and Baltic leaders continue to assert their support for Ukraine and accuse Moscow of using aggressive rhetoric to intimidate Western nations. The situation reflects broader geopolitical dynamics in Eastern Europe, where the war in Ukraine continues to shape regional security policies. NATO members remain committed to collective defense, but the evolving nature of hybrid warfare, including cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and the use of proxy forces, has complicated traditional notions of deterrence. In this context, the alleged Russian interest in deploying drones disguised as Ukrainian weapons underscores the increasing sophistication of modern conflict strategies. Recent developments also highlight the role of international collaboration in intelligence sharing. Lithuania’s Defence Ministry has reportedly coordinated with Polish and other NATO partners to monitor and respond to potential Russian aggression. This cooperation is essential in maintaining stability in a region where the balance of power is constantly shifting due to the presence of nuclear-armed states and the strategic interests of global powers. As the situation unfolds, continued vigilance and diplomatic engagement will be crucial in preventing further escalation.