(MENAFN) EU leaders and NATO officials condemned Russia's alleged breach of Estonia's airspace on Friday, calling the act a "provocation" that escalates regional tensions.

EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas described the airspace violation as an exceptionally dangerous provocation, noting that it marks the third such incident in just a few days. On X, she highlighted that Moscow is testing the "West’s resolve" and called for a strong, unified response, warning that this repeated breach of EU airspace further heightens tensions in the region.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen vowed to take a strong stance on all “provocations,” underscoring the EU’s commitment to reinforcing its Eastern defenses. “As threats escalate, so too will our pressure,” von der Leyen declared on X. “I call on EU leaders to swiftly approve our 19th sanctions package.”

The NATO spokesperson confirmed that the alliance had taken swift action, intercepting the Russian aircraft. “This is yet another example of reckless Russian behaviour and NATO’s ability to respond,” spokesperson Allison Hart stated on X.

In London, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed solidarity with Estonia, saying the UK "stands with our Estonian allies" following “yet another reckless incursion into NATO airspace.”

Germany’s Foreign Ministry echoed this sentiment, with a spokesperson stating: "Vigilance is the price of freedom. Russia's unacceptable violation of Estonian airspace today has shown that this principle of NATO is now more relevant than ever. Estonia and my colleague @Tsahkna have Germany's full solidarity."

Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen called the act “dangerous and reckless,” affirming that Finland remains committed to “weakening Russia, supporting Ukraine, and strengthening European deterrence and defense.” "Estonia can count on our support," she added.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte confirmed that he had spoken with Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal, noting that the alliance’s “response under Eastern Sentry was quick and decisive.”

Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel condemned the violation, saying, "Once again, Russia is violating NATO airspace. The Netherlands condemns Russia’s reckless behaviour. We stand in full solidarity with our ally Estonia."

Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics called for NATO’s Baltic air policing mission to be expanded into a full air defense mission. “Latvia stands in full solidarity with our Estonian friends and neighbours,” Rinkevics said.

Lithuanian Presidential Adviser Kestutis Budrys warned that Russia is “testing NATO’s limits” and insisted that the Alliance must sharpen its defense posture. "These are not accidents. The Alliance is being tested militarily. We must sharpen NATO’s posture to the point where no one dares to test our deterrence," Budrys stated.

The incident has sparked intense discussions within NATO and the EU, as tensions with Russia continue to rise.

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