The United Nations Security Council has called an emergency meeting after Russian MiG-31 jets violated Estonian airspace on Friday morning. The aircraft entered the airspace of the NATO member near Vaindloo Island and remained for 12 minutes, prompting condemnation from Estonia and its allies.
Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna accused Russia of breaching the UN Charter, stating: "On September 19, three armed Russian fighter jets entered Estonian airspace for 12 minutes—violating Estonia’s territorial integrity and breaching the UN Charter, which prohibits the threat or use of force." He added that such actions are unacceptable from any UN member, especially a permanent Security Council member.
NATO confirmed it intercepted the Russian aircraft, calling it "another example of reckless Russian behaviour." Estonia's Prime Minister Kristen Michal said the government would request NATO Article 4 consultations, which allow allies to discuss threats to territorial security.
The UN meeting is scheduled for tomorrow at 10am. This marks the first time in Estonia's 34-year history that it has formally requested an emergency Security Council session. The incident follows recent Russian drone breaches of Polish airspace, heightening regional tensions.
