Ankara: Estonia warned the international community on Monday that a recent violation of its airspace by Russian fighter jets marks a 'dangerous escalation' and is part of a broader pattern of provocations by Moscow against neighboring states.

According to Anadolu Agency, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna stated at a press conference that this incident was the fourth violation of Estonia's airspace by Russia this year. Estonia requested an emergency UN Security Council meeting on Sunday after three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets entered its airspace on September 19.

Tsahkna emphasized that the incident posed a threat not only to Estonia but also to the wider international community. He described the airspace violation as a destabilizing escalation that brings the entire region closer to conflict. The minister highlighted similar provocations against Poland and Romania, which form part of a wider pattern of Russian provocations while Moscow continues its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Estonia invoked Rule 50 to formally request the emergency session and expressed gratitude to South Korea, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council. Tsahkna urged Russia to cease its war of aggression against Ukraine, end all provocations against neighboring countries, and abide by the United Nations Charter.

He called on the international community to stand firm in defending sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. He asserted that such actions must always be called out, especially when committed by a permanent member of the Security Council, which is entrusted with safeguarding international peace and security.

In response to questions about whether Europe faces criticism for applying double standards by acting quickly against Russia but less decisively over Israel's actions in Gaza, Tsahkna rejected the claim. He stated that Europe has been very clear about international law, international principles, and the UN Charter.