Russia has accused Kyiv of using civilians as human shields and denied any drone incursions into Estonia and Poland, amid growing tensions and repeated violations of NATO airspace. Meanwhile, the US and NATO have condemned these violations, emphasizing their commitment to defending allied territory.
On Tuesday, Russia claimed that Ukrainians are “lining up to die for the advancement of Western geopolitical interests.” Speaking at a United Nations Security Council meeting, Russia’s deputy ambassador to the UN, Dmitry Polyanskiy, accused Kyiv of placing air defense systems close to residential areas, which he said has led to tragic incidents involving wreckage falling on homes from errant air defense missiles.
Polyanskiy also dismissed allegations of Russian drones and jets entering Estonia and Poland as “unsubstantiated.” However, earlier this month, NATO fighter jets shot down Russian drones that illegally entered Polish airspace during an attack on Ukraine. Shortly after, NATO intercepted three Russian jets violating Estonian airspace. Romania has also reported a Russian drone intrusion during attacks on Ukraine.
In response to these incidents, US President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that NATO members should shoot down Russian aircraft if they violate allied airspace.
On Monday, US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz condemned Russia’s repeated incursions into NATO territory and stressed that the United States and its allies will defend “every inch of NATO territory.” Speaking at an emergency UN meeting following Russian jets entering Estonian airspace, Waltz remarked:
“This event, following on the heels of the Russian drone incursion into Polish airspace, creates the impression that Russia either wants to escalate and pull more countries into this conflict with Ukraine, or doesn’t have full control of those who operate its fighter planes and drones. Either scenario is very disconcerting, given that Russia is obviously a nuclear power with global reach.”
As tensions continue to rise, NATO’s vigilance in protecting allied airspace remains unwavering amid mounting concerns about the potential escalation of the conflict.
https://www.news18.com/world/ukrainians-lining-up-for-wests-geopolitical-interests-russia-to-un-security-council-ws-l-9592570.html