Estonia accuses Russia of “unprecedentedly brutal” airspace violation

Estonia on September 19 accused Russia of violating its airspace after three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets entered the Baltic country’s skies without permission.

The Estonian Foreign Ministry said the incursion occurred over Vaindloo Island on the morning of September 19, with the jets remaining in Estonian airspace for nearly 12 minutes, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

According to officials, the aircraft had no flight plans, their transponders were switched off, and they failed to establish two-way radio communication with Estonian air traffic services during the violation.

In response, the ministry summoned the charge d’affaires of the Russian Federation in Tallinn to lodge a formal protest and deliver a note of complaint.

Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna condemned the incident, describing it as an “unprecedentedly brutal” breach of sovereignty.

“Russia has violated Estonian airspace four times already this year, which in itself is unacceptable, but today’s violation, during which three fighter jets entered our airspace, is unprecedentedly brutal,” Tsahkna said.

He added: “Russia’s increasing border testing and aggressiveness must be met with a rapid increase in political and economic pressure.”

Russia has yet to comment on Estonia’s claims.

By Sabina Mammadli