In case Russia is found to have violated Turkey’s airspace, and thereby the airspace of the Alliance, the shooting would constitute an act performed by Turkey in line with its right to protect its air space. In this context it is to be noted that, if confirmed, this violation of Turkey’s airspace would not be the first case that has occurred since the start the Russian air force operations in Syria.

In this connection, it will be necessary to ensure that during future combat operations over Syria’s territory the airspace of the neighbouring states is not violated without their consent.