NATO Leaders Warn Russia Against Airspace Violations Amid Rising Tensions

European NATO allies, including the UK, Poland, and Estonia, have issued strong warnings to Russia following multiple airspace violations, with Britain’s Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasizing that the Royal Air Force is prepared to confront Russian aircraft if they continue to breach NATO airspace. Poland’s leadership declared a firm stance to shoot down any unauthorized Russian aircraft or drones violating its airspace, signaling a zero-tolerance policy amid recent incursions, while Poland’s Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski condemned Russia’s actions as part of a broader aggressive nationalism. At an emergency UN Security Council meeting convened by Estonia, NATO representatives warned Moscow of risking direct armed conflict, reiterating the alliance’s defensive posture but readiness to act decisively to protect its territory. Russia denied the accusations, dismissing the claims as hysteria and Russophobic propaganda, demanding evidence that has yet to be provided by NATO members. The incidents have heightened tensions, with NATO raising alert levels on its eastern borders and condemning Russia’s provocations as threats to European security and global peace. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian General Staff warned that Russia might increase strikes on civilian infrastructure amid difficulties on the front lines, signaling the broader regional instability tied to Russia's military actions.