NATO has issued a strong warning to Russia regarding recent violations of member states’ airspace, describing the actions as “increasingly irresponsible.” This statement follows an emergency meeting convened by Estonia, which reported that three Russian MiG-31 jets entered its airspace for over 10 minutes before being confronted. NATO reaffirmed its commitment to Article 5, the mutual defense clause of its founding treaty, and stated that further violations are escalatory and risk miscalculation.

Moscow has dismissed Estonia’s allegations, characterizing them as unfounded accusations aimed at provoking tension. The Estonian Foreign Minister asserted that their claims are backed by solid evidence. NATO Chief Mark Rutte indicated that while the Russian jets did not pose an immediate threat, future assessments would be made in real time.

The incidents in Estonia occurred amid wider reports of airspace violations involving Russian drones near Ukrainian and Polish borders. Following several drone encounters, Denmark closed its main airport due to incursions and investigations are ongoing. Norway also reported multiple airspace violations by Russia earlier in the year.

In response, NATO members, including Poland, have stressed their readiness to act decisively against any breach of territory. Additionally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has highlighted the need for immediate sanctions against Russia as he prepares for discussions at the UN General Assembly.



Read full article at www.aljazeera.com