Following a series of airspace incursions by Russia into NATO member states, Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, chair of the European Parliament’s Security and Defence Committee, has expressed caution regarding a proposal from conservative factions to shoot down Russian aircraft.
Speaking to the Tagesspiegel newspaper, Strack-Zimmermann stated that the role of NATO’s air forces is to prevent intrusions and redirect unauthorized aircraft, emphasizing that shooting down an aircraft should be a measure of last resort. She added confidence in the judgment of air forces in determining appropriate responses.
Strack-Zimmermann anticipates further provocations from Moscow. She warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin is likely to intensify disruptive actions aimed at instilling fear and uncertainty within European societies. She stressed the importance of avoiding escalation and prioritizing the rapid strengthening of national defense capabilities to ensure full adherence to NATO commitments.
Sara Nanni, Green Party spokesperson for security policy in the Bundestag, echoed a similarly measured response to the prospect of shooting down Russian aircraft. Nanni warned that such an action would be less than effective and potentially exacerbate dangerous dynamics, highlighting Russia’s efforts to test the NATO alliance’s military prudence and political resolve. She argued that the loss of Russian pilots would unlikely alter Putin’s trajectory given the scale of human cost already associated with the conflict in Ukraine.
Nanni advocated for the swift implementation of political measures, including restrictions on Schengen visas for Russian citizens and the liquidation of Russian assets. She urged targeting those individuals within Russia who contribute to the political and economic sustainability of the Putin regime.