Three Russian fighter jets over Tallinn highlight need for Eastern Sentry

Three Russian fighter jets were spotted over Tallinn, Estonia, prompting a statement from Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė on September 19, 2025. She indicated that this incident serves as further evidence that the Eastern Sentry initiative is necessary.

Šakalienė remarked that NATO"s border in the North East is being tested, emphasizing the need for a serious response to such provocations. She referenced a historical incident involving Türkiye, which shot down a Russian Su-24 jet near its border with Syria in late 2015 after the aircraft allegedly violated Turkish airspace.

In her comments, Šakalienė highlighted the importance of taking decisive action in light of these developments. The situation underscores ongoing tensions in the region and the need for NATO allies to remain vigilant.

For more on international military responses, see recent developments regarding military operations in the Caribbean.