NATO issues stern warning to Russia following airspace violation in Estonia
NATO has issued a strong warning to Russia, stating that it will utilize all necessary military measures to defend itself after three Russian fighter jets breached Estonian airspace in a recent provocative move.
Estonia reacted by summoning a high-ranking Russian official to express its disapproval of the intrusion by the three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets, which entered Estonian airspace without permission on Friday. The Russian aircraft reportedly flew over the Vaindloo Island area and remained in Estonian airspace for approximately 12 minutes.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized the alliance’s readiness to safeguard every inch of NATO territory, stating, “We do not want to see a continuation of this dangerous behavior from Russia.” He further warned that NATO is prepared to shoot down any intruding fighter jets if necessary.
In response to the airspace violation, a meeting of the NATO North Atlantic Council was convened to denounce Russia’s actions as a dangerous breach of Estonian airspace on September 19. NATO’s swift and decisive response involved deploying allied aircraft to intercept and escort the Russian jets out of Estonian airspace.
The NATO statement emphasized that such provocations must cease, cautioning Russia to be prepared for the consequences of its actions. It condemned Russia’s pattern of irresponsible behavior, citing recent airspace violations in Poland and other NATO member countries.
NATO asserted its commitment to utilizing both military and non-military tools to defend against Russian threats. The alliance announced the launch of “Eastern Sentry” to enhance its defense posture along the Eastern flank and reiterated its unwavering commitment to Article 5.
Additionally, NATO affirmed its support for Ukraine and vowed not to be intimidated by Russia’s actions. The statement concluded by highlighting Estonia’s concerns over the repeated violations of its airspace by Russian aircraft and the necessity of formal consultations under Article 4 of the alliance.
Following the incident, Estonia’s Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna described the breach as “unprecedentedly brazen,” emphasizing that Russia has violated Estonian airspace multiple times this year, but never on such a significant scale.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk of Poland also expressed a zero-tolerance policy towards airspace violations, stating that flying objects encroaching on Polish territory would be intercepted without hesitation.
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