Russia’s defense ministry scrambled two fighter jets as British warplanes approached its border above the Black Sea. The British planes were flying in international airspace but turned around after the Russian jets approached.
This is not the first time Russia has intercepted British planes over the Black Sea. In April, they also scrambled fighter jets to intercept two British Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon jets in the area.
The interception occurred during heightened tensions between Russia and the West over the war in Ukraine. The West has imposed sanctions on Russia for alleged war crimes in Ukraine.
The reason for Russia’s interception on Monday remains unclear, but it may be a message to the West that it is unafraid to challenge Western military activity in the region.
The interception highlights the risk of miscalculation and escalation in the conflict between Russia and the West. Both sides should exercise caution to avoid unintended conflict.
