This week, European diplomats clearly informed the Kremlin that in the event of new violations of NATO member countries’ airspace, the alliance is prepared to take decisive measures, including the destruction of Russian aircraft. This stance was expressed during a tense meeting in Moscow, where representatives from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany voiced deep concern over recent incidents.
This is reported by Kyiv24
European Countries Accuse Russia of Deliberate Provocations
According to Western officials, the meeting took place behind closed doors — details were discussed on the condition of anonymity. Diplomats emphasized the incursion of three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets into Estonian airspace last week, interpreting it as a deliberate tactic sanctioned by the Russian military command.
During the negotiations, a representative from the Russian side stated that these violations were a response to Ukraine’s attacks on Crimea. The Russians also claimed that without NATO’s support, such actions by Kyiv would be impossible, concluding that the alliance is already involved in a conflict affecting European states.
European participants in the meeting noted that the Russian delegation was meticulously recording all statements, which may indicate preparation for a detailed report for the higher leadership of Russia.
NATO’s Reaction and Recent Airspace Violation Incidents
A German government official confirmed the negotiations took place, emphasizing that Western diplomats demanded Moscow cease such incidents. Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted that he is coordinating actions with France, the United Kingdom, and Poland, and supports the use of “all necessary measures” to protect the sovereignty of allies.
On September 19, three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets illegally entered Estonian airspace over the Gulf of Finland, remaining there for about 12 minutes. In response, the Russian Ministry of Defense stated that the flights were “planned” and conducted in accordance with international law, asserting that there was no border crossing.
“We will continue to respond in a manner, at a time, and in a domain of our choosing. Our commitment to Article 5 is unwavering,” the statement read.
On September 23, NATO officially condemned Russia’s actions and placed full responsibility for the violation of Estonian airspace on Russia, labeling them as escalatory. The North Atlantic Council held an emergency meeting at Tallinn’s request and promised a “decisive” response to provocations.
In the past two weeks, alliance member states have repeatedly recorded incursions of Russian aircraft and drones into their airspace. In particular, on September 10, about 20 Russian drones entered Polish airspace, and on September 13, a Russian drone attacking Ukraine was over Romania for nearly 50 minutes before returning to Ukrainian territory.