Estonia accused Russia of an “unprecedentedly brazen” violation after three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets entered its airspace on Friday, remaining for 12 minutes before being forced out by NATO aircraft. The Estonian government said the jets flew around 5 nautical miles (9 km) into its territory near Vaindloo Island with transponders off, no flight plans, and no contact with air traffic control. NATO confirmed it scrambled Italian F-35s stationed in Estonia under its Baltic Sentry mission.
This marks the fourth Russian airspace violation of Estonia this year but is the most serious so far, according to Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna. He called it a “clear provocation” and announced Estonia will invoke NATO’s Article 4 consultations, which allow allies to meet when any member feels its security is threatened.
Russia denied the allegations, claiming its aircraft flew strictly over neutral Baltic waters en route to Kaliningrad and “did not violate Estonian borders.” The incursion came just days after Russia and Belarus concluded their Zapad-2025 exercises, which included nuclear drills, and a week after Russian drones breached Polish airspace.
Poland also reported that two Russian fighter jets violated the safety zone of a Baltic Sea drilling platform on the same day. European leaders reacted swiftly: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said “this was no accident,” while Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene urged NATO to urgently strengthen air defenses in frontline states. Ukraine also condemned the move, calling for “strong action.”
U.S. President Donald Trump, asked about the violation, said he had not been briefed but warned it “could be big trouble.” NATO labeled the incursion reckless and underscored its readiness to respond.
With repeated provocations, Baltic leaders argue Russia is testing NATO’s resolve, increasing pressure for stronger air defense deployments along the alliance’s eastern flank.