Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene has suggested that NATO should target Russian military aircraft, citing the example of Türkiye’s actions in 2015. This comes after Estonia, Lithuania’s neighbor, accused Russia of violating its airspace, a claim Moscow has denied.

According to Sakaliene, Russia’s actions are a test of the bloc’s borders, and a strong response is necessary. She stated, “We need to mean business,” emphasizing the importance of taking decisive action. The minister referenced an incident in 2015 when the Turkish Air Force downed a Russian bomber over Syria, where Russia was supporting the government against extremist groups.

Sakaliene’s comments highlight the ongoing tensions between Russia and NATO member states. The incident in Estonia has sparked concerns about Russia’s willingness to respect the airspace of neighboring countries. Moscow has consistently denied any wrongdoing, but the accusations have led to increased calls for NATO to take a firmer stance against Russian aggression.

The situation is complex, with multiple countries involved and a history of conflicts in the region. In 2015, Türkiye’s decision to down the Russian bomber was widely reported and led to a significant escalation of tensions between the two countries. Sakaliene’s suggestion that NATO should follow a similar approach reflects the growing sense of urgency among some member states to take a stronger stance against Russia.

As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how NATO will respond to Sakaliene’s comments and the ongoing tensions with Russia. The alliance has consistently emphasized its commitment to defending its member states, but the specifics of its response will depend on a range of factors, including the actions of Russia and the preferences of individual member states.