RAF Faces Accusations from Russia After Near-Collision with Passenger Jet
The Royal Air Force (RAF) is facing serious allegations from Russia, which claims that one of its reconnaissance aircraft nearly collided with a commercial passenger jet. Reports suggest that the RAF plane was conducting surveillance operations in support of Ukrainian military activities.
The incident reportedly took place in international airspace, though specific details regarding the location have not been disclosed. Russia’s accusations have raised alarms about potential escalation in military tensions, as global powers remain on edge regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
A senior Russian official stated that the RAF’s actions were reckless, potentially putting civilian lives at risk. This accusation comes amid increasing concerns about the implications of military aircraft operating in close proximity to passenger flights, particularly in regions affected by conflict.
The incident is further complicating an already delicate situation, with diplomatic discussions ongoing. “It felt like the US was trying to sell us in different ways the Russian desire to take the whole of Donbas and that the Americans wanted Zelensky to accept all of it in the phone call,” said a Ukrainian official.
As tensions simmer, discussions surrounding territorial control remain crucial. “There are major things about territory which need to be discussed more: who controls what, who stays where, who withdraws, and if Ukraine withdraws from the contact line, how to make sure that Russia does the same and [doesn't continue] with the fighting,” according to a Ukrainian source.
The Russian government has demanded accountability from the UK, stating that such actions endanger not only military operations but also threaten the safety of innocent civilians traveling in airspace that intersects with areas of conflict.