By Matt Underwood NATO fighters scrambled in Poland as Russia bombards Ukraine. The term “scrambled” really just means a quick deployment of fighter jets, a rapid launch in response to something urgent. It’s essentially the military’s version of a fire alarm, a signal to get airborne immediately, usually triggered by an incursion or potential threat.
NATO fighters scrambled in Poland as Russia bombards Ukraine. There’s a lot of discussion around whether NATO should have done more to protect Ukraine. A common thought is why not implement a no-fly zone, shooting down Russian aircraft and missiles over Ukraine? But, the reality is that such a move would very likely mean direct war with Russia. It’s the kind of decision that could escalate things dramatically, something NATO has been trying very hard to avoid since this whole conflict began.
NATO fighters scrambled in Poland as Russia bombards Ukraine. There is a deeply ingrained fear of escalating to World War III, largely because of the existence of nuclear weapons. No nuclear power has ever directly engaged in war with another. The logic is that the stakes are simply too high; the potential for total annihilation is a powerful deterrent. While I wholeheartedly support Ukraine, the concern about a wider war is very valid.
NATO fighters scrambled in Poland as Russia bombards Ukraine. Some suggest that NATO could provide air defense assistance by shooting down drones and missiles, which may help to free up Ukrainian forces to fight on the front lines. Taking out Russian pilots would be a dangerous step, putting NATO directly into the conflict. However, Russian pilots don’t usually venture into Ukrainian-controlled areas anymore due to the strong presence of mobile air defenses.
NATO fighters scrambled in Poland as Russia bombards Ukraine. A potential alternative could be secretly deploying NATO special forces into Ukraine with Ukrainian uniforms. They could operate air defense systems under Ukrainian command, allowing Ukraine to focus its forces on the front lines, while also making it difficult for Russia to know that NATO is involved.
NATO fighters scrambled in Poland as Russia bombards Ukraine. When it comes to existing agreements, the Budapest Memorandum promised Ukraine security assurances against attack, but not a full-blown defense guarantee. The U.S. has essentially kept its word. Russia, however, has violated that agreement, the terms of which were that they would respect Ukraine’s sovereignty.
NATO fighters scrambled in Poland as Russia bombards Ukraine. The idea of enforcing a no-fly zone is something that keeps getting thrown around, but it’s important to understand it would involve a direct conflict with Russia. Russia has a habit of setting “red lines” and, at the same time, also ignoring any of those red lines that were set by other countries. Sending humanitarian aid, or giving Ukraine long-range missiles has resulted in some of these empty claims from Russia.
NATO fighters scrambled in Poland as Russia bombards Ukraine. It’s also worth noting the changing world climate. More countries may now be inclined to try and acquire or manufacture nuclear weapons, as the international landscape shifts. The United Nations has also played a part in preventing a larger conflict. International relations are complicated, with countries acting in their own self-interest. Those interests can shift quickly.
NATO fighters scrambled in Poland as Russia bombards Ukraine. The only thing that seems to be preventing a full-blown war between Russia and other countries is fear. Specifically, the fear of nuclear weapons. That’s a pretty powerful deterrent.