Estonia Summons Russia Diplomat Over Third Airspace Violation

Estonia has summoned the Russian chargé d'affaires to formally protest a violation of its airspace by a Russian Mi-8 helicopter near Vaindloo Island, which occurred on September 7 and lasted about four minutes without permission or a flight plan. This incident marks the third such breach of Estonian airspace by Russian aircraft in 2025, escalating diplomatic tensions and prompting strong statements from Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, who described the violations as serious breaches of international law. Earlier incidents involved a Russian fighter jet entering Estonian airspace in May to protect a Russian shadow fleet vessel and a Russian IL-76 transport aircraft violating airspace in June. Estonia's actions reflect ongoing concerns about Russia's disregard for Estonia's sovereignty and international agreements. The repeated violations have led Estonia to demand respect for its borders and adherence to international norms from Russia.