Ukraine has issued an important warning to the international community, drawing attention to the threats posed by Russian airspace to civil aviation. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andriy Sibiga, stated that, in light of the intensification of military operations in the region, the Ukrainian government had submitted an official notification to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to warn airlines against flying over Russia.
Sibiga emphasised that the Ukrainian authorities are seeking to prevent potential incidents and are urging all airlines and governments to take into account the risks associated with flying over Russian territory. He noted that Russia is ignoring the threats arising from its military actions and that the situation in Russian airspace is becoming increasingly dangerous.
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, also echoed this view, warning airlines and insurance companies that, in light of recent events, Russian airspace is becoming extremely unsafe. He highlighted the increase in the number of Russian attacks on Ukraine and emphasised that Ukraine reserves the right to self-defence, which could lead to retaliatory strikes against Russian targets.
Zelenskyy added that, whilst Ukraine is prepared to suspend strikes on Russian territory at the request of its international partners, it continues to act within the framework of its rights under Article 51 of the UN Charter, defending its interests and security.
Meanwhile, at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Russian President Vladimir Putin commented on the Ukrainian leader’s statements, calling them “a declaration of state terrorism” and promising that Russia would find a way to respond to the threats. This situation adds to the tension in the already complex relations between the two countries and jeopardises the safety of civil aviation in the region.