WASHINGTON – A surge of Russian military flights near NATO borders — including repeated forays close to Alaska — has triggered fresh alarm across the alliance and prompted U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to summon top commanders to an unusual meeting next week in Virginia.
U.S. and Canadian fighter jets have scrambled multiple times in recent days to intercept Russian aircraft approaching North American airspace, defense officials said. NATO members in Europe have also reported heightened activity, with analysts suggesting the maneuvers are designed to test allied defenses, gather intelligence, and signal Moscow’s reach in the Arctic.
Alaska, long regarded as America’s “first line of defense,” has been a focal point. U.S. Northern Command confirmed increased patrols, rapid intercepts, and coordination with Canadian forces in response to the uptick in Russian activity.
The Pentagon has released few details on Hegseth’s abrupt decision to convene hundreds of generals and admirals at Quantico, Virginia. The size and timing of the gathering — amid both leadership shakeups and escalating Russian assertiveness — has fueled speculation that Arctic readiness and air defense posture will be on the agenda.
“Anytime you see this much movement in the Arctic, it’s not random,” said one NATO analyst. “It’s deliberate messaging, and the U.S. is clearly signaling back.”
Officials said Hegseth will address the officers directly but declined to preview his remarks.
