Russian Fighter Jet Breaches Estonian Airspace During Suspected Sanctions Evasion

By Galaxy Tribune Staff | Anchor: Mark Armstrong
Date: 15/o5/25

Airspace Violation Raises Baltic Security Concerns

Tensions spiked in the Baltic region on Tuesday when Estonia reported a brief violation of its airspace by a Russian fighter jet. The Sukhoi Su-35 entered above the Juminda Peninsula in the Gulf of Finland, staying less than a minute. According to the Estonian Defense Forces, the jet filed no flight plan, had its transponders turned off, and ignored air traffic communications—clear breaches of international aviation standards.

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Portuguese F-16 fighter jets deployed under NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission responded with a reconnaissance flight from Ämari Air Base. Estonia hasn’t reported such a direct violation in several years. This act, officials say, escalates concerns about Russia’s increased military provocations along NATO’s eastern frontier.

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Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna called the airspace breach “intolerable and deeply worrying.” He added that Estonia views this as a serious threat to regional security and NATO unity.

Shadow Fleet Tanker Draws Scrutiny

At the same time, a Gabonese-flagged oil tanker named Jaguar was being escorted out of Estonia’s exclusive economic zone by the Estonian Navy. Estonian authorities believe the tanker belongs to Russia’s “shadow fleet”—a group of older, covertly owned vessels used to bypass oil sanctions.

▶️ What is Russia’s shadow fleet? Find out here

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur confirmed the escort mission, noting the vessel raised red flags due to its suspicious registration. Estonian naval aircraft and helicopters monitored the operation, which ended peacefully. Officials did not attempt to board the vessel.

However, pro-Kremlin Telegram channel Rybar told a different story. It claimed Estonia tried to stop the tanker and that the Russian jet intervened, forcing NATO units to back off. This version lacks verification and was not acknowledged by Estonian authorities.

Incursion Coincides With Major NATO Drill

The incident occurred during Estonia’s largest annual military exercise, Exercise Hedgehog, involving over 16,000 troops from allied countries. This timing adds fuel to concerns about Russia’s use of hybrid tactics, including GPS jamming and unauthorized aircraft maneuvers.

Following the breach, Estonia summoned Russia’s chargé d’affaires and delivered a formal diplomatic protest. Minister Tsahkna emphasized that such actions dangerously test NATO’s resolve. With war still raging in Ukraine, incidents like these push the alliance closer to potential confrontation.

▶️ Get updated on the Ukraine conflict’s impact on NATO

Galaxy Tribune will continue covering developments across the Baltic region. Stay informed with real-time updates and expert analysis.