Airspace Breach Raises Concerns
Polish authorities have reported that Russian jets intruded into the designated safety area surrounding a Baltic Sea oil platform. The Ministry of Defence described the maneuver as risky and conducted without prior clearance, marking another episode in a series of military airspace violations that have alarmed NATO countries in the region.
NATO Scrambles Jets Over Estonia
Separately, NATO forces confirmed that Italian F-35 fighters intercepted Russian MiG-31 planes over Estonian territory near Vaindloo Island. The aircraft reportedly flew without filing flight plans, had their transponders switched off, and failed to establish communication with local controllers. Estonia denounced the incident as a bold provocation and formally protested to Moscow through diplomatic channels.
EU Response and Escalating Tensions
European Union officials have characterized the airspace incursions as highly provocative. In response, the EU unveiled its 19th sanctions package targeting Russian banks, military-linked companies, crypto platforms, and LNG exports, with plans to halt Russian LNG imports entirely by January 2027. The series of actions reflects mounting international concern over Russia’s military activity in the Baltic and the broader regional security risks it poses.
