NATO vowed to defend against Russian airspace incursions after incidents in Poland and Estonia.
NATO issued a stern warning to Russia on Tuesday, vowing to use “all necessary military and non-military tools” to defend against airspace violations after recent incidents in Poland and Estonia.
The alliance said the Sept. 10 downing of Russian drones over Poland marked the first direct clash since the Ukraine war began, while Estonia accused three Russian jets of a 12-minute incursion last week, a claim Moscow denies. “Russia should be in no doubt: NATO and Allies will employ, in accordance with international law, all necessary military and non-military tools to defend ourselves,” NATO declared. Secretary-General Mark Rutte said any response, including shooting down aircraft, would depend on the assessed threat.
Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated his country would “without discussion” down objects violating its airspace. Britain’s Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper warned Russia’s “reckless actions risk a direct armed confrontation.” Estonia has triggered Article 4 consultations, underscoring NATO’s resolve as tensions escalate.