Vladimir Putin has deployed three fighter jets into the airspace of a NATO member in an “unprecedentedly aggressive” move.
The MIG-31 jets breached Estonia’s airspace on Friday morning without authorization from the NATO country. These Russian aircraft flew over the Vaindloo Island region and remained in Estonian airspace for approximately 12 minutes. The jets operated without engaging in two-way radio communication with local air traffic control and had their transponders deactivated.
Authorities in Estonia strongly criticized Putin’s administration for the transgression, labeling it as “extremely aggressive.”
Estonia’s Foreign Minister, Margus Tsahkna, confirmed that Russian diplomats had been called in following the alarming escalation.
Tsahkna stated: “Russia has trespassed into Estonian airspace on four occasions this year, which is unacceptable on its own. However, today’s breach, during which three fighter jets entered our airspace, is exceptionally aggressive.”
“Russia’s escalating border provocations and aggression must be countered with swift reinforcement of political and economic measures.”
The Kremlin has persistently provoked NATO member countries through a series of aggressive actions.
Russian drones were downed last Wednesday after crossing into Polish airspace, marking another violation of NATO territory. The UK government imposed fresh sanctions on Moscow in response to the breach last week.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper remarked: “The UK will not passively observe as Putin continues his brutal incursion into Ukraine. His blatant disregard for sovereignty was evident this week when he recklessly sent drones into NATO airspace.”
“The security of NATO and Ukraine is pivotal to the UK’s security – a fundamental aspect of the Prime Minister’s strategy for change. International efforts to intensify economic pressure on Russia and cut off crucial financial flows that he relies on to fund this unlawful war are imperative.”
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