Estonia bans flights near the Russian border

15.09.2025 | International news

Estonia temporarily banned flights in the border zone with Russia due to increased military activity and flights of Ukrainian drones. The measure aims to optimize air surveillance and is a preventative security measure.

Снимка от calflier001, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Estonia has introduced a temporary flight ban in the border zone with the Russian Federation, reported the national media ERR, cited by Censor.NET.

The decision, announced on September 12, is unprecedented and sheds light on the increased activity in the region bordering the Leningrad Oblast.

The official announcement emphasizes the connection of the ban to the activities of the Russian armed forces, as well as to the flights of Ukrainian drones.

This is a serious signal of escalating tensions in the border region.

Details of the ban

Details of the restriction were revealed by the Commander of the Estonian Air Force, Riivo Valge. "We are only restricting part of the aviation activity", he explained, "For example, with a justified request, as was the case with a police drone search at night, exceptions are allowed".

This shows that the ban is not total and that exceptions are foreseen in emergency cases, determined by the competent authorities.

However, the partial restriction demonstrates concern about potential risks associated with uncontrolled flights over the border zone.

Purpose of the measure

The main purpose of the measure is to optimize air surveillance. By reducing the number of flying objects, the Estonian authorities aim to increase the efficiency of monitoring the airspace in this sensitive border region.

This shows that Estonia is tightening its security measures against the backdrop of geopolitical instability.

Concern about escalation

There is a legitimate concern that the increased military activity of Russia near the Estonian border could escalate.

The temporary flight ban, although partial, reflects the serious assessment of the situation by the Estonian government and represents a preventive measure to prevent potential incidents and safeguard national security.

Moscow_q_s actions, including the potential use of Estonian airspace for conducting military operations, represent a serious violation of international law.

Estonia, as a member of NATO, has the right to protect its territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The ERR report reflects the anxious atmosphere prevailing in the border region.