US defence chief calls Russia's breaches of NATO airspace unacceptable

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has called the Russian drone incursions into NATO airspace unacceptable.

“The Russian incursion into NATO airspace is unacceptable. The Department of War stands in solidarity with Estonia and commends the rapid, strong allied response,” Hegseth said during talks with his Estonian counterpart Hanno Pevkur, responding to Russian fighter jets' recent entry into Estonian airspace, Caliber.Az reports, citing The Hill.

Hegseth also praised the quick response of European allies’ air defence systems. According to him, this demonstrated the best qualities of NATO, its readiness, and its focus on carrying out its core mission.

In addition, the US defence chief assured Pevkur that he is in close consultation with the Supreme Allied Commander for Europe regarding further steps after the MiG-31 attack and will continue to closely monitor the situation.

By Khagan Isayev