Russian fighter jets briefly violated Estonian airspace on Friday, ignoring warnings from Italian NATO jets. The 12-minute incursion, confirmed by Estonian radar and visual contact, was the fourth such incident this year. Russia denies the violation, claiming its jets remained in neutral waters. Estonian officials dismissed the denial, suggesting the incursion was a tactic to divert Western attention from Ukraine. While the Estonian government considered invoking NATO's Article 4 for consultations, it deemed shooting down the jets unnecessary.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.