The 32 NATO countries' ambassadors gathered in Brussels on Tuesday morning after Estonia demanded a so-called Article 4 meeting.
The reason: the Russian aircraft that on Friday flew into Estonian airspace for just over ten minutes.
NATO now promises a "robust response".
"Russia bears full responsibility for this action, which is escalating, risks being misinterpreted and puts lives at risk. They must stop", it says in a joint statement after the meeting.
"NATO and its member countries will use all necessary military and non-military tools to defend ourselves and deter threats from all directions", the organization writes.
"Do what is required"
At a press conference afterwards, Rutte emphasizes that NATO is "naturally" ready to do more to deter similar events.
Whether this also means that NATO forces will shoot down Russian aircraft is another matter. Such things are decided from case to case, depending on what is considered a danger or risk.
- We will always react with calm determination. What we always do is make sure that we act proportionally, but if necessary, you can be sure that we do what is necessary, says Rutte.
Thanks pilots
The Secretary General at the same time defends NATO's actions in both Estonia and when Russian drones recently flew into Poland, despite criticism for not acting faster and more forcefully.
- I really want to thank the pilots from Sweden, Finland and Italy, in the Estonian case, for acting so decisively and quickly.
- Our message to Russia is clear. What they will see now is that whatever happens, we will be there. We are a defense alliance, yes, but we are not naive, promises Rutte.
Wiktor Nummelin/TT
Fact: Russian violations of NATO
TT
In recent weeks, several notable violations have occurred of NATO member states' airspace:
September 10: A dozen Russian drones are detected over Poland, where several of them are shot down.
September 13: A Russian drone is detected over Romania, in connection with a Russian attack on Ukraine.
September 19: Three Russian fighter jets fly through Estonian airspace for twelve minutes.
September 22: Three large drones of unknown origin disrupt air traffic over Copenhagen Airport.
Russia has denied any involvement in the incidents. According to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, it is still too early to say who is behind the incident in Denmark.
