An Estonian Navy patrol boat attempting to intercept a Russian shadow fleet tanker in the Baltic Sea was forced to retreat after being buzzed by a Russian Su 35 fighter jet. The incident, which took place off the coast near Tallinn, has raised serious concerns about NATO’s readiness and response posture in the region.
The Estonian vessel, EML Raju, supported by a NATO reconnaissance aircraft and helicopter, made an effort to stop and inspect the Russian tanker named Jaguar, suspected of being part of Russia’s shadow fleet transporting sanctioned goods. Radio exchanges captured in video footage show the Estonian crew issuing orders to the tanker to alter course. Shortly after, a Russian Su 35 flew overhead at a low altitude, reportedly prompting the Estonian vessel to abandon its operation.
The Su 35 is believed to have launched from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. Despite the presence of NATO air support, the unarmed patrol boat backed away, reportedly to avoid escalating the situation. The tanker has since retreated safely to Russian-controlled waters near Gogland Island.
Observers have criticised the weak NATO response, calling it a missed opportunity to confront illegal Russian maritime activity. With the patrol boat described as a lightly armed environmental protection vessel, its lack of firepower raised questions over the appropriateness of deploying such a craft for an operation of this nature.
The incident has added to growing frustration among Ukraine’s allies over what they see as NATO’s cautious and sometimes timid approach to Russian provocations in the Baltic and Black Seas. Critics argue that the West is failing to deter Russian aggression through weakness and retreat, sending dangerous signals to the Kremlin. Many believe that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin will interpret the incident as confirmation that threats alone can paralyse NATO action.
