Russia Jets Intercept Two U.S. Bombers Over Barents

Russia scrambled MiG-29 and MiG-31 fighter jets to intercept two U.S. B-52H bombers approaching its border over the Barents Sea. The U.S. aircraft turned away before violating Russian airspace, reflecting ongoing tensions between the two nations. This incident follows a history of close encounters, including the March 2023 clash where a Russian Su-27 damaged a U.S. drone over the Black Sea. Moscow has been increasingly aggressive, accusing the U.S. of aiding Ukraine with reconnaissance flights. Finland's recent NATO membership and cooperation with U.S. bombers further underscore rising geopolitical tensions. Russia's military maneuvers in the Arctic and warnings of direct confrontation with NATO add to the precarious situation.