Russian warplanes intercepted over Estonian airspace, EU calls it ‘dangerous provocation’

Russian MiG-31 fighter jets fly in formation behind a tower of the Kremlin during a rehearsal for the flypast. (Photo: Reuters/ File)

Fourth violation of Estonia’s airspace

“Russia has already violated Estonia’s airspace four times this year, which in itself is unacceptable. But today’s incursion, involving three fighter aircraft entering our airspace, is unprecedentedly brazen,” Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said in a statement.

“Russia’s increasingly extensive testing of boundaries and growing aggressiveness must be met with a swift increase in political and economic pressure,” he added.

‘Transponders turned off’

Estonian Defence Forces said the airspace violation occurred on Friday morning in the area of Vaindloo Island, around 100 kilometres from the capital Tallinn.

The aircraft did not have flight plans, their transponders were not switched on and they were not in contact with air traffic control, Estonia said.

‘NATO responded immediately’

A NATO spokesperson said the Russian jets “violated Estonian airspace” and “NATO responded immediately and intercepted the Russian aircraft”.

“This is yet another example of reckless Russian behaviour and NATO’s ability to respond.”

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: “We will respond to every provocation with determination while investing in a stronger Eastern flank.”

‘Dangerous provocation’

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called it a dangerous provocation.

“Today’s violation of Estonia’s airspace by Russian military aircraft is an extremely dangerous provocation. This marks the third such violation of EU airspace in days and further escalates tensions in the region. The EU stands in full solidarity with Estonia. I am in close contact with the Estonian government. We will continue to support our member states in strengthening their defences with European resources. Putin is testing the West’s resolve. We must not show weakness,” she said on X.

Polish, Romanian airspace also violated by Russia

This is the third time in recent days that Russia has violated the airspace of a NATO member country. On Sunday, Romania said a drone breached its airspace during a Russian attack on neighbouring Ukraine.

Earlier, on September 9, around two dozen Russian drones entered Poland’s airspace, triggering a quick response from the Polish Air Force and other NATO militaries, which scrambled aircraft.

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