Three Russian military jets breached NATO member Estonia’s airspace for 12minutes, making an “unprecedentedly brazen” violation.
According to Estonian government, Russia’s Defence Ministry, however denied the incursion, asserting that the jets flew over natural waters.
This incident escalates existing tensions linked to the ongoing war in Ukraine, following a recent episode where over 20 Russian drones entered Polish airspace on September 9-10, prompting NATO jets to engage.
The latest breach occurred shortly after the conclusion of joint military exercises between Russia and Belarus which included rehearsels for the launch of nuclear weapons.
Estonia’s Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna condemned the repeated violations, noting that this was the fourth such occurrence this year.
He described the recent incursion as particularly alarming emphasising the potential for the high speed MiG-31jets to cover extensive areas of Estonian territory during their brief time in the airspace.
In response, NATO confirmed the incident, labelling it as reckless behaviour from Russia and stated that NATO jets were deployed to intercept the Russian aircraft.
Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal announced that Estonia would seek consultations under Article 4 of the NATO treaty, which allows for discussions when a member’s security is perceived to be threatened.
European leaders react swiftly, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas asserting that the incusion was no accident. Estonia has also summoned the top Russian diplomat in the country to lodge a formal protest.
Ukraine denounced the incursion as an unacceptable act of destabilisation and expressed solidarity with Estonia, while Lithunian Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene urged NATO to enhance air defense capabilities in frontline states.
Estonia reported that the Russian jets did not have flight plans, failed to activate transponders and were not in contact with air traffic control during the violation.
Experts speculate that this incident may be a test of NATO’s resolve, especially in the light of recent provocations.
