On February 5th, a Russian Su-34 “Fullback” fighter-bomber allegedly crossed into Turkey’s sovereign airspace. In light of the controversy surrounding Turkey’s decision to shoot down a similar Russian jet that crossed into its borders (for roughly 20 seconds) last November, Putin and his armed forces were well aware of the heightened tensions between the two nations. Nonetheless, they evidently decided to again push the NATO country’s buttons by disregarding international flight protocols. These repeated violations of Turkish airspace demonstrates Russia’s adolescent-like desire to flex its military muscles and intimidate its international counterparts-even when there is no strategic advantage in doing so. As Europe and the Middle East continue to address the crisis in Syria (and the influx of refugees it has caused), Russia’s provocations serve as superfluous distractions to the many legitimate concerns the region is facing.
Just a few days ago, Russia sent four Su-34 jets to its Latakia airbase in Syria. According to an article published in Al-Jazeera, these planes will have little impact on Putin’s military operations in combating the Islamic State (or, perhaps, rebel forces against the Assad regime). These jets are, however, “considered a good match for the most modern European fighters.” Thus, their presence in the region represents a considerable threat to NATO allies. Regardless of their purpose as either an intimidating tool or a legitimate resource for fighting global terrorism, there is no reason to violate Turkish airspace in their transportation, missions, or flight patrols. If Putin would like to have a seat at the table as a respected player in global diplomatic negotiations, Russia must immediately stop its imprudent neglect of international flight standards.
