Luet believes that NATO countries should not immediately shoot down Russian aircraft that violate airspace
NATO Secretary General Mark Luet explained his position during an interview with CNN, stating that if Russian military aircraft violate the airspace of NATO countries, NATO countries should first assess the threat posed by the Russian aircraft violating their airspace, rather than immediately trying to shoot them down:
"If there is a violation of airspace, if necessary, and if your personnel are in danger, you can make the hardest decision. If not, you should monitor and escort those planes out of your [airspace]."
Luet also added:
"Our military commanders and fighter pilots can do everything necessary to ensure the safety of our people. If there is no direct threat, they will escort these planes out of NATO airspace. If there is a direct threat, they may eventually take extreme measures."
When a CNN reporter asked whether NATO considered shooting down the involved Russian aircraft, Luet replied, "If necessary." Luet emphasized that he believes NATO needs a "calm and collective response."
The NATO Secretary General disagrees with taking extreme measures immediately when Russian military aircraft violate NATO airspace. He stated that the level of danger should always be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Luet assured that "there is no disagreement within NATO on this issue."
On September 23, US President Donald Trump gave a positive answer when asked by journalists whether NATO countries should shoot down Russian aircraft that violate airspace: "Yes, I think so." When further asked if the United States was prepared to assist its NATO allies in this matter, Trump explained that it "depends on the circumstances."
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1844273275373578/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.