Lithuania Protests Russian Jets’ Airspace Breach, Urgent Response

UPDATE: Lithuania has issued a strong protest after two Russian military jets reportedly breached its airspace on Thursday, prompting immediate diplomatic action. The incident involved a Sukhoi SU-30 fighter and an IL-78 tanker from Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave, which entered Lithuanian airspace for approximately 700 metres (2,300 feet) and remained there for just 18 seconds.

The Lithuanian military confirmed the incursion was likely part of aerial refueling training exercises. In response, authorities in Vilnius summoned the charge d’affaires from the Russian embassy to voice their concerns. The Lithuanian Foreign Ministry demanded that Russia provide an explanation for this violation and take measures to prevent future occurrences.

Moscow swiftly denied any wrongdoing, asserting via a statement on Telegram that “the flights were conducted in strict compliance with the rules for using airspace above Russian territory.” Russia emphasized that the aircraft did not stray from their designated route or violate the borders of any other nations.

In a rapid response to the airspace breach, two Spanish airforce Typhoon Eurofighters, part of a NATO air patrol mission in the Baltic region, were dispatched to monitor the situation. This incident highlights ongoing tensions in the area, as the three Baltic nations—Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia—are NATO members that frequently encounter airspace violations by Russian military aircraft or drones.

The backdrop of this incident includes a similar violation earlier this year, where three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets entered Estonian airspace over the Gulf of Finland for approximately 12 minutes. That breach led to Estonia requesting an extraordinary meeting of the UN Security Council and activating Article 4 of the Atlantic Treaty, which allows for consultations among allies when a member state feels threatened.

The latest developments underscore the fragile security situation in the region, with NATO members remaining vigilant against potential aggressions from Russia. As Lithuania continues to advocate for accountability, the international community is closely watching the unfolding events in this critical geopolitical landscape.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as tensions in the region persist amidst ongoing military activities.