The recent Russian drone strike in Galați, Romania, is a blatant act of aggression that demands a firm and decisive response. This incursion into NATO airspace underscores the necessity of maintaining a strong national defense and unwavering support for our allies in Eastern Europe. The incident should serve as a wake-up call to those who advocate for weakening our military or questioning our commitment to NATO.

Mark Rutte's assurance of NATO's “absolute solidarity” with Romania is a critical demonstration of the alliance's resolve. However, words alone are not enough. NATO must be prepared to back up its commitments with concrete actions, including increased military deployments, enhanced intelligence sharing, and a willingness to use force if necessary.

The concept of defending “every inch of Allied territory” is not merely a rhetorical flourish. It is a solemn pledge that must be upheld. Any sign of weakness or hesitation will only embolden Russia and invite further aggression. The United States must lead the way in strengthening NATO's defenses and deterring Russian expansionism.

Ursula von der Leyen's call for “increasing the pressure on Russia” is a step in the right direction, but the EU must also recognize the importance of energy independence. Europe's reliance on Russian energy supplies has long been a source of vulnerability and has allowed Russia to exert undue influence over the continent. The EU should prioritize diversifying its energy sources and reducing its dependence on Russian gas and oil.

The incident in Galați also highlights the need for stricter border controls and a more robust immigration policy. Open borders and lax enforcement create opportunities for terrorists and other criminals to enter our countries and pose a threat to our national security. We must secure our borders and ensure that only those who are properly vetted are allowed to enter.

The challenges presented by Russia's aggression require a comprehensive approach that encompasses military strength, economic resilience, and ideological clarity. We must stand firm in our defense of freedom and democracy and resist the siren song of appeasement and isolationism.

The principles of national sovereignty and territorial integrity must be upheld without compromise. Russia's disregard for these principles is a direct threat to the international order and must be met with unwavering resistance. We must support Ukraine's right to defend itself and resist Russian aggression, and we must stand in solidarity with our allies in Eastern Europe who are on the front lines of this conflict.