Estonia says recent airspace violations 'stark reminder' of European security

By Burak Bir

LONDON (AA) - The Estonian president accused Russia on Tuesday of "yet another escalation" following recent airspace violations, calling them a stark reminder of the security risks facing the entire region.

"The recent violations of Estonian, Polish and Romanian airspace by Russia are yet another escalation and a stark reminder that Russia's aggression threatens not only Ukraine but the security of the entire region," Alar Karis said at a UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine.

Defining Russia's actions as "dangerous, reckless, and in violation of international law," he said Russia is "not interested in peace and security," neither in Ukraine nor in Europe.

Karis said Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity are "non-negotiable and cannot be compromised."

Noting that he was speaking on behalf of the Baltic states of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia, the president noted that their message is "clear": Russia and its leadership "must be held accountable for the crime of aggression, for war crimes, and crimes against humanity."

"There can be no lasting peace without accountability," he added.

A suspected Russian drone strike on Sept. 10 hit Polish territory, prompting NATO to deploy fighter jets. Similar accusations were made by Romania and Estonia, and denied by Russia.