1. Mr Chair, thank you for convening today’s joint FSC-PC meeting following the
violation of Estonia’s airspace by Russia on Friday, 19 September. This airspace
violation comes shortly after Russia’s violation of the airspace of Poland on
10 September and of Romania on 14 September, just over a week apart from each
other.
2. We reiterate our position delivered at the occasion of the first recent airspace
violation that we condemn in the strongest terms the intentional violation of the
airspace of EU Member States by Russia. These aggressive and reckless acts are
part of a serious escalation by Russia. They threaten the security of EU citizens,
regional stability and international peace.
3. Russia’s reckless actions represent not only a breach of international law but also
a destabilising escalation that brings the entire region closer to conflict than at any
time in recent years.
4. We also use this occasion to yet again call on the Russian Federation to cease,
without delay, its war of aggression against Ukraine and to abide by the obligations
enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. We call Russia to end all
provocations and threats against its neighbours’ sovereignty and territorial
integrity. The international community must stand firm in demanding adherence to
the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful settlement of
disputes.
Thank you.