Russian military aircraft, including bombers and fighter jets, flew near Alaska in a provocative move, prompting US intercepts, amid ongoing tensions and recent Russian incursions into NATO airspace, as Putin's relations with the US and Ukraine remain strained.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that shooting down Russian jets intruding into NATO airspace is 'on the table,' amid increased Russian incursions and hybrid warfare tactics in Europe, highlighting the continent's high alert and the importance of defending its territory.
Gold prices are soaring towards $4,000, driven by geopolitical tensions involving Russian jets and optimism about interest rate policies, indicating strong investor interest in safe-haven assets.
NATO intercepted three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets that violated Estonian airspace over the Baltic Sea, escalating tensions in the region amid ongoing Russian provocations and calls for increased political and economic pressure on Moscow.
Russian and Chinese jets have been engaging in frequent unsafe intercepts of US aircraft, reflecting a desire to challenge the US and assess its capabilities, according to top US military commanders. These encounters come as the US Air Force's aging jets and weapons continue to pose challenges for air superiority. While the US still maintains an advantage in aircraft technology and pilot experience, the lead is shrinking, prompting Russia and China to test their own aircraft and pilots against the US. The risks of these encounters are exacerbated by China's refusal to engage in military-to-military discussions, increasing the likelihood of accidents escalating.