NATO plans urgent meeting over Russian fighter jet breach of Estonia’s airspace
Military and diplomatic circles across Europe and the North Atlantic Alliance are on high alert as a scheduled NATO Council meeting approaches.
According to sources, including Reuters, discussions are set to take place this Tuesday regarding a serious incident when three Russian MiG-31 fighters entered Estonia’s airspace without permission and remained there for 12 minutes before being forced back.
Tallinn responded by initiating consultations under Article 4 of the Washington Treaty, which calls for collective discussion and response whenever a member believes its territory, political independence, or security is under threat.
The Russian Defense Ministry denies the airspace violation, claiming their aircraft manned over neutral waters.
This incident occurs amid rising tensions due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and previous provocations, such as over 20 Russian drones entering Polish airspace weeks prior.
Since 2014, Estonia has recorded more than 40 Russian airspace violations, highlighting a consistent pattern of Russian military behavior in the region.
European and American military experts emphasize that such incidents should reinforce NATO’s unity and deterrence strategies against Russia.
Politicians from the US and Europe urge caution and preparedness, as the security situation surrounding Ukraine remains volatile.
Earlier in September, Estonia’s president called on European nations to strengthen their defenses amid concerns that the US may reduce military presence in the region while increasing their own military capabilities, further emphasizing the importance of NATO cohesion for regional stability.