Estonia Invokes NATO Article 4 After Russian Jets Violate Airspace Amid Baltic Defense Boost

NATO members, including the Czech Republic and Estonia, have taken a firm stance on responding to Russian airspace violations, with Czech President Petr Pavel stating that shooting down Russian planes is a justified defense mechanism if they violate alliance airspace. Estonia experienced a significant breach when three Russian MiG-31 jets entered its airspace near Vaindloo Island, leading to a rapid NATO response involving Italian F-35 jets that forced the Russian planes to leave. Estonia's Prime Minister Kristen Michal confirmed that while there are strict parameters governing the use of force, NATO air defenses effectively deterred the incursion, and political consultations under Article 4 of the NATO charter have been requested to address such provocations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy characterized these airspace violations as part of a systemic Russian campaign against Europe and NATO, urging a strong and unified Western response, including increased economic sanctions and military support for Ukraine. These events highlight escalating tensions and NATO's commitment to defending its member states amid ongoing Russian aggression. Additionally, British RAF Typhoons have begun NATO air defense patrols over Poland as part of Eastern Sentry to bolster regional security.