Trump Backs NATO Downing Russian Jets
During a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the UN, U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that NATO countries should shoot down Russian aircraft if they violate their airspace. He responded “Yes I do” when asked whether NATO should take such action.
Scope and Limits
Trump stopped short of committing U.S. forces directly. He framed his suggestion as a policy direction for NATO rather than a binding U.S. military pledge.
Context of Incursions
His comments come amid multiple recent airspace violations along NATO borders. In one incident, three Russian MiG-31 jets entered Estonian airspace for about 12 minutes, prompting NATO scramble operations.
Reactions and Risks
Observers warn that Trump’s call could escalate tensions between NATO and Russia, raising the probability of direct military confrontations. NATO officials must now weigh enforcement of sovereign airspace against the risks of escalation.
