Baltic Sea Security Incident
Polish authorities reported that Russian military aircraft breached the safety zone surrounding an oil platform in the Baltic Sea. The Ministry of Defence described the maneuver as hazardous and conducted without prior notice, adding to growing concerns over Russia’s regional military activities near NATO territories.
NATO Responds Over Estonian Airspace
In a related event, NATO confirmed that Italian F-35 fighters intercepted Russian MiG-31 jets over Estonia near Vaindloo Island. The aircraft reportedly flew without submitting flight plans, deactivated their transponders, and failed to communicate with local air traffic controllers. Estonian officials condemned the incursion as a provocative act and filed a formal complaint with Moscow.
EU Expands Sanctions Amid Rising Tensions
The European Union criticized the airspace violation as a serious threat to regional stability. In response, the EU announced its 19th sanctions package, targeting Russian banks, military-linked companies, LNG exports, and cryptocurrency platforms. A complete ban on Russian LNG imports is scheduled to take effect by January 2027, underscoring growing European concerns over Russian military activity in the Baltic.
