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Astonishing airspace violation: Russian military aircraft transgress NATO boundaries - F-35 fighter jets swiftly deployed

"Extraordinarily aggressive" occurrence: Russian fighter jets violate NATO airspace – F-35s...
"Extraordinarily aggressive" occurrence: Russian fighter jets violate NATO airspace – F-35s scramble in response

Astonishing airspace violation: Russian military aircraft transgress NATO boundaries - F-35 fighter jets swiftly deployed

In a series of alarming events, Russia has repeatedly reinforced attacks near NATO's eastern flank, sending military aircraft such as fighter jets and numerous drones into the airspace of NATO member countries including Estonia, Poland, and Romania. This latest incident involves Russian fighter jets entering the airspace of Estonia, marking a potentially dangerous escalation.

The incident, which occurred in September, also involved a Russian Mi-8 helicopter near Vaindloo in Estonian airspace. The MiG-31, a type of Russian interceptor jet, was also involved, adding to the concerns of NATO allies. These actions demonstrate Russia's increasing aggressiveness and disregard for NATO sovereignty, testing NATO's readiness and political cohesion while escalating regional tensions.

Estonia, along with the Baltics, is identified as a potential next target for Russian President Vladimir Putin's expansionist ambitions. The Suwałki Gap, a narrow land corridor connecting the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad with Russia's close ally Belarus, is also frequently in focus.

In response to these provocations, the EU has announced new sanctions against Russia, including a ban on the import of Russian liquefied natural gas into EU countries from January 2027. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas described the incident as an "extremely dangerous provocation".

NATO allies have announced plans to reinforce the defense of the alliance's eastern flank in response to Russia's actions. The MiG-31, with a length of 22.69 meters, a crew of 2, an operating radius between 720 and 1400 kilometers, and a maximum speed of Mach 2.83 (approximately 3500 km/h), poses a significant threat that necessitates these defensive measures.

As threats escalate, so will the EU's pressure, according to EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. These developments underscore the importance of maintaining a strong and united NATO, and the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among its members.

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