Russia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzya, has claimed that Moscow possesses intelligence indicating Ukraine is preparing drone operations against Russian territory through the Baltic region, escalating tensions between Russia and NATO members bordering the conflict zone.

Speaking during a session of the UN Security Council, Nebenzya alleged that Ukrainian drone assets had been transferred to Latvia and warned that Russian intelligence was capable of identifying potential launch sites and operational centers.

“Russian foreign intelligence has reported that the coordinates of decision-making centers in Latvia are known. NATO membership will not provide protection against possible retaliation,” Nebenzya stated.

The remarks reflected growing Russian accusations that Baltic countries are indirectly facilitating Ukrainian military operations against Russia. Latvian authorities, however, firmly rejected the allegations, insisting that neither Latvian territory nor its airspace is being used to launch attacks on Russia.

Following the statements, Latvia’s Foreign Ministry summoned the Russian diplomatic representative and issued a formal protest note, condemning Moscow’s accusations.

The United States and NATO meanwhile reiterated the alliance’s collective defense commitments, emphasizing continued support for member states amid rising regional tensions.

The latest escalation reportedly followed an incident involving a drone said to be linked to Ukraine approaching Estonian airspace, prompting NATO fighter jets to increase patrol flights across the Baltic region. Latvian authorities also announced heightened air threat alerts in areas near the Russian border.

Moscow has repeatedly argued that expanding military activity along the Baltic corridor risks destabilizing regional security and increasing the possibility of broader confrontation between Russia and NATO. Western officials, however, continue to accuse Russia of using threats and military pressure to intimidate neighboring states supporting Ukraine. (ILKHA)