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22.09.2025 Denmark's statement for UNSC briefing on violation of Estonia’s airspace

Who H. E. Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark
Who H. E. Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark
When 22.09.2025

Checked Against Delivery

 

Mr President,

 

First of all, I would like to thank ASG Jenča for his informative briefing.

 

Ten days ago, in this chamber, Denmark’s representative expressed our condemnation of the violations of Poland’s airspace by Russian military drones.

 

And within four days, another Russian military drone incursion took place. This time into Romanian airspace. Denmark condemns the violation of the territorial integrity of Romania.

 

And today we meet yet again to discuss a reckless and dangerous violation by Russia. With three fighter jets entering Estonia’s airspace last Friday. For 12 minutes and penetrating 10 km deep north of Tallinn. Until escorted out of Estonian airspace by NATO jets.

 

Let there be no doubt: I condemn this latest violation of Estonia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity by Russia. Our support for Estonia remains steadfast.

 

Our resolve to stand by our allies remains equally firm. Together with our EU partners and NATO allies we will continue to offer support to Estonia in protecting its borders.

 

Mr President,

 

These are reckless and dangerous escalations and provocations by the Russian Federation. These are threats to intimidate countries to stop supporting Ukraine. And to test our resolve.

 

Russia clearly feels it can act with impunity. In Ukraine. The Baltic Sea. The Black Sea. The whole of Eastern Europe.

 

Denmark and its allies will not be provoked by Russia. On the contrary it only strengthens our resolve and further intensifying our long-standing support to Ukraine. Whatever threats are made.

 

We have seen this playbook before. The invasion of Georgia. The annexation of Crimea. The invasion of the Donbas. The full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russia’s neighbours – not unreasonably – fear they could be next.

 

Denmark stands fully behind Estonia’s territorial integrity. The Russian provocations must end immediately.

 

Therefore, we tell the Russian Federation today: step back. Take another path. We will not allow the unravelling of the European security architecture. We will not allow Russia to project chaos and uncertainty wherever it wants.

 

And more broadly, these recent air incursions undermine the fundamental pillars of international law that we all benefit from.

 

Mr President,

 

When The UN was created 80 years ago, the aim was to stop larger states from bullying and terrorizing smaller states. To create an order in which all countries are sovereign. Where their territorial integrity is respected.

 

Denmark remains fully committed to these principles.

 

I thank you.