UK Plans Confrontation with Russian Jets Violating NATO Airspace Amid Rising Tensions

British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper warned at a UN Security Council emergency session that Russia's recent incursions into NATO airspace, including the unauthorized entry of Russian jets into Estonian airspace, risk direct armed confrontation between NATO and Russia. Cooper described these actions as dangerous and deliberate attempts to undermine the territorial integrity of sovereign nations and European security, emphasizing that NATO is defensive but ready to take all necessary steps to defend its skies and territory, including confronting unauthorized aircraft. The incidents have prompted NATO to increase air-policing missions through the Eastern Sentry operation, with RAF Typhoon jets joining missions over Poland and other countries in the region. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk highlighted that Poland is prepared to shoot down any flying objects violating its airspace, while also cautioning allies about the risks of escalating the conflict. NATO allies are holding consultations and discussions to decide on a firm response to Russia's airspace violations, reflecting growing tensions and calls for a harder stance against Moscow's provocations. The Russian Defense Ministry denies violations, but the European Union and NATO leaders have condemned the incursions, viewing them as tests of Western resolve.