Serious escalation on NATO's eastern flank.
Three russian MiG-31 fighters (heavy interceptors capable of being equipped with hypersonic Kinzhal missiles) violated Estonian airspace and approached the capital, Tallinn, to within approximately 5 nautical miles (approximately 9 km).
The aircraft circled there for approximately 12 minutes without a flight plan, transponder, or radio contact.
This was not a mere "overflight," but a provocative approach to a NATO member, which can be interpreted as a test of the Alliance's responsiveness.
NATO responded promptly: Italian F-35A stealth fighters were placed on alert from the Ämari base in Estonia and deployed to counter the attack. However, there was no exchange of fire—the russian jets withdrew as soon as the F-35s were within range.
Three russian MiG-31 fighter jets illegally entered Estonian airspace and remained there for a total of twelve minutes, according to the media.
Protest?
Condemnation?
Harsh condemnation?