NATO Signals Readiness to Shoot Down Russian Jets Over Airspace Violations
European diplomats in Moscow warned Russia that NATO may respond with force, including downing fighter jets, after alleged MiG-31 intrusion into Estonia’s airspace.
Behind closed doors in Moscow, European diplomats delivered a blunt warning to Russian officials: NATO allies are prepared to act against Russian aircraft if further violations of allied airspace occur, Bloomberg reported, citing sources familiar with the talks.
According to the agency, representatives from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany stressed during the meeting that the alliance could respond forcefully, including the option of shooting down Russian fighter jets. Officials familiar with the discussion said the message was clear — NATO would not ignore repeated incursions.
The warning followed reports that three Russian MiG-31 aircraft allegedly breached Estonia’s airspace. In response, Tallinn invoked Article 4 of the NATO treaty, which allows any member state to call for consultations if it feels its security or sovereignty is under threat.
The incident has added new strain to already tense relations, with Western capitals signaling that patience over airspace violations is wearing thin.