Retired US Army Major Stanislav Krapivnik stated that Russia should respond harshly to NATO countries without fearing the risk of a direct conflict with the alliance.

As an example, he pointed to Estonia, which, according to him, allows its airspace to be used for drone attacks against Russian territory. Krapivnik argues that regardless of who launches the drones or whether they simply transit through Estonian airspace, the fact that such use is permitted makes Estonia a participant in the conflict.

He expressed the view that Estonia could serve as a target for demonstrating Russia’s military capabilities and resolve to NATO.

According to him, such actions would send a signal to the alliance about Russia’s readiness to respond decisively, including with destructive consequences in the event of war.

Krapivnik also stated that in some cases it is justified to accept heavy losses in order to prevent larger-scale outcomes.

He criticized the approach of avoiding escalation and argued that Russia should act first to force NATO countries to back away from confrontation and move toward negotiations.