NATO Warns Russia Over Airspace Violations Amid Escalating Tensions
BRUSSELS, Belgium - NATO accused Moscow on Tuesday of an escalating campaign of airspace violations over eastern and northern alliance member states, prompting the 32-member alliance to hold urgent talks.
According to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, a Russian MiG-31 was spotted over Estonian airspace last week, which came shortly after Russian drones were shot down over Poland and spotted over Romania. "Russia should be in no doubt: NATO and Allies will employ, in accordance with international law, all necessary military and non-military tools to defend ourselves and deter all threats from all directions," Rutte told reporters in Brussels.
The airspace violations have sparked concerns among NATO member states, particularly in the Baltic region where Russia has been accused of increasing its military presence. "This is a clear escalation by Russia, and we will not tolerate it," said Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. "We urge Russia to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries."
The incident also comes as NATO member states are holding emergency talks on defense cooperation and security measures in response to growing tensions with Russia. The alliance has been strengthening its military presence in Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland and the Baltic states, amid concerns over Russian aggression.
In a separate development, large drones were spotted circling above Copenhagen airport in Denmark on Monday, prompting authorities to shut down air traffic for several hours. Similar incidents have occurred at Oslo's airport in Norway, where drones were seen flying overhead.
The drone sightings have raised concerns about the potential for cyber attacks and disruptions to critical infrastructure. "We are taking this incident very seriously and are working closely with our international partners to ensure the security of our skies," said Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.
NATO's warning to Russia comes as tensions between the two powers continue to escalate over Ukraine, Syria, and other global hotspots. The alliance has been urging Russia to respect international law and norms, particularly in the context of airspace violations.
The current situation remains fluid, with NATO member states continuing to hold emergency talks on defense cooperation and security measures. As the situation unfolds, it is clear that the alliance will not tolerate further airspace violations by Russia.
Background: The incident marks the latest escalation in tensions between NATO and Russia, which have been simmering for months over issues such as Ukraine, Syria, and military build-up along the border with Eastern Europe. The alliance has been strengthening its military presence in the region to deter potential Russian aggression.
Additional perspectives:
"This is a clear message from NATO that it will not tolerate airspace violations by Russia," said Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Błaszczak.
"We urge Russia to respect international law and norms, particularly in the context of airspace violations," said US Ambassador to NATO Kay Bailey Hutchison.
Next developments: The situation remains fluid, with NATO member states continuing to hold emergency talks on defense cooperation and security measures. As the situation unfolds, it is clear that the alliance will not tolerate further airspace violations by Russia.
*Reporting by Dw.*
