Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need for a decisive response from Europe to Russia’s aggressive actions after three MiG-31 fighter jets breached Estonian airspace. According to the head of state, such incidents are not coincidences but rather indicative of a deliberate Kremlin strategy aimed at destabilizing the situation on the European continent.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Reactions from European Leaders to Russia’s Provocation
Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that Russia is using all possible means to create chaos in Europe and is exerting pressure on NATO and Western countries. The president called for an increase in sanctions against the aggressor country, highlighting the need for united actions from European states and each individual country to stop such provocations.
“This is not a coincidence. This is a systemic Russian campaign against Europe, against NATO, against the West. And it requires a systemic response. Strong actions are necessary – both collective and from each individual country. Russia must feel increasing pain from international pressure, primarily through the economy, and sanctions are the best way to ensure this. At the same time, Russia’s losses in the war must also increase, which can be achieved through a strong Ukrainian army,” noted the President of Ukraine.
Details of the Incident and Assessments from European Politicians
The breach of Estonian airspace occurred on September 18. Three Russian MiG-31s entered Estonian airspace over the Gulf of Finland without permission, remaining there for a total of 12 minutes. Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna reported that this is already the fourth such incident since the beginning of the year, but he described this particular incident as “unprecedentedly brazen.”
High-ranking officials from the European Union condemned Russia’s actions. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell characterized the event as “an extremely dangerous provocation,” while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated the need to increase pressure on the Kremlin in response to rising threats.