NATO Jets Down Drone Over Latvia: Airspace Breach Rattles Eastern Flank

NATO fighter jets shot down an unidentified foreign drone that entered Latvian airspace on Saturday, the Latvian military said. The drone's origin was not immediately clear, but the incident heightens concerns over repeated aerial incursions along the alliance's eastern border. The aircraft was intercepted and destroyed after it crossed into the Baltic state's territory, marking a rare direct engagement by NATO forces in the region. Officials did not specify the drone's flight path or purpose, but the downing underscores the tense security environment near Russia's periphery. Latvia, a NATO member since 2004, has faced an increase in stray drones and suspected surveillance flights in recent months. The alliance has not yet issued a formal statement, but the incident is expected to be discussed at upcoming command meetings. No casualties or collateral damage were reported.