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A US Air Force B-52 bomber was dangerously intercepted by two Russian fighter jets. The incident took place just above the Black Sea on Friday, states a statement from the US military aviation.
Two Russian planes carried out an “unsafe and unprofessional” interception of a US Air Force B-52 bomber over the Black Sea and in international waters.
Russian pilots placed their fighter jets within 100 meters of the large B-52 plane and caused turbulence, restricting their maneuverability, the US Air Force reported, according to CNN.
“Such actions increase the potential for air collision, are unnecessary and are incompatible with the pilot code of good practice and international flight rules.”said the general Jeff harrigian, commander of the United States Air Force in Europe and the African Air Force.
“While the Russian planes were operating in international airspace, they endangered the flight safety of the planes involved. We hope it works in accordance with established international standards to ensure safety and prevent accidents. “, he said.
The bombers flew “to show NATO solidarity”
Several US bombers flew over 30 NATO member states on Friday. “To demonstrate NATO solidarity, increase preparedness, and provide training opportunities to enhance interoperability for all participating US aircrews and NATO allies.”, is specified in a statement from the US American Command.
The demonstration of US military capability came amid ongoing tensions with Russia and questions about the Trump administration’s commitment to the alliance following a recent decision to reduce US troop levels in Europe.
The United States’ commitment to NATO has been questioned after President Donald Trump’s repeated criticism of member countries. They have not reached the goal recommended by the alliance of 2% of GDP in defense.
Donald Trump advised the Pentagon to substantially reduce the number of US troops in Germany, and many returned to the United States, a move that Trump said was due to Berlin not spending 2% of its GDP on defense.
