The Estonian Ministry of Defence released the flight trajectory of three Russian MiG-31s that violated the country’s airspace near Vaindloo Island on September 19. According to the ministry, the aircraft remained for almost 12 minutes with their transponders off and without radio contact. The map footage also recorded a fourth airspace violation by Russia this year.

The fourth airspace violation by Russia this year

– Estonian Ministry of Defence

The leader of the opposition Isamaa party, Urmas Reinsalu, said such actions underline the need to close Estonia’s eastern border, but this would require agreement with southern neighbours for joint action.

I believe that in response to Russia’s growing provocative actions we should react by closing the eastern border. The security situation is clearly becoming increasingly tense, including at the eastern border, and I think this is an appropriate reaction to Russia’s behavior

– Urmas Reinsalu

According to Reinsalu, Estonia must consider all available options and tools to respond to Russia’s actions.

Interior Minister Ihor Taro stressed that the issue of closing the border is not being discussed today, as there have been no provocations on land.

On September 19, three Russian MiG-31s entered Estonia’s airspace for about 12 minutes. The Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Russian chargé d’affaires in Estonia to express a protest and deliver a note. Russia stated that the flight was planned and conducted from Karelia to an airfield in the Kaliningrad region and took place in strict accordance with international rules over neutral waters.

The Estonian government decided to initiate consultations with allies under Article 4 of the North Atlantic Treaty in light of the airspace violation by Russian fighters. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte contacted Estonia’s Prime Minister Kristen Mihal to discuss the incident.

Context of the event and consequences

The incident highlights the need to strengthen airspace monitoring and coordination among NATO allies, especially after another border violation. Estonia and its partners continue to assess possible diplomatic and defense steps in response to Russia’s activity.