Three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets entered the Estonian skies "without permission and remained there for a total of 12 minutes" over the Gulf of Finland, the government said. Italy, Finland and Sweden scrambled jets under Nato's mission to bolster its eastern flank. A Nato spokesperson said it was "yet another example of reckless Russian behaviour and Nato's ability to respond". Russia denied violating Estonian airspace. But tensions have been escalating recently, after Poland and Romania - both Nato members - said Russian drones breached their airspace.

Article 4 of the Nato treaty formally starts urgent consultations within the 32-member alliance, which ties the US and many European nations together on collective defence.  It is the second time this month that a Nato member has requested Article 4 consultations. Poland did so on 10 September after Russian drones entered its airspace.Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal said "Nato's response to any provocation must be united and strong". "We consider it essential to consult with our allies to ensure shared situational awareness and to agree on our next joint steps," Michal said. US President Donald Trump said on Friday: "I don't love it. I don't like when that happens. Could be big trouble." (BBC)