NATO jets shoot down drone in Latvian airspace: Spokesperson
On August 14, NATO fighter jets shot down a drone that entered Latvian airspace, according to a NATO spokesperson. This incident marks the second time in less than a month that a drone has been shot down in Latvian airspace, following an incident in June. The incident has raised concerns in Europe about unauthorized drone activity, particularly along the NATO alliance's eastern border with Russia, which is currently embroiled in a four-year conflict with Ukraine.
NATO has launched an investigation into the matter. Two Italian Eurofighter jets and two Turkish F-16 fighter jets were scrambled in response to the drone incursion. The defence ministry of Latvia confirmed the incident to AFP. In response to the drone, Latvia's foreign minister thanked Italy for maintaining the integrity of NATO airspace.
NATO allies reiterated that Russia bears full responsibility for the airspace violations, describing them as dangerous and unacceptable.
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