'Reckless Russian behavior': NATO intercepts Russian jets after Estonian airspace violation

NATO responds after Russian military jets 'violate' Estonian airspace

NATO said Friday it intercepted Russian military jets after they crossed into Estonian airspace without authorization.

According to Estonia’s Defence Forces, three Russian MiG-31 fighter aircraft entered the country’s airspace near Vaindloo Island, located in the Gulf of Finland about 100 kilometres from Tallinn, and remained there for 12 minutes.

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

He added that Moscow’s growing provocations “must be responded to by rapidly strengthening political and economic pressure.”

Three russian fighter jets over Tallinn is one more hard proof that #EasternSentry is long due.

NATOs border in the North East is being tested for a reason. We need to mean business. PS. Türkiye set an example 10 years ago. Some food for thought. — Dovilė Šakalienė (@DSakaliene) September 19, 2025

A NATO spokesperson said the Russian jets "violated Estonian airspace" and that "NATO responded immediately and intercepted the Russian aircraft," calling it "yet another example of reckless Russian behaviour and NATO's ability to respond."

The incident comes just days after Poland and Romania reported drone incursions linked to Russia’s war in Ukraine.

(With agency inputs)