France: Russian fighter jet displayed 'aggressive' behavior
French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu stated that a Russian fighter jet displayed "aggressive" behavior toward a French unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in international airspace over the Eastern Mediterranean.
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In a statement on his X account, Lecornu said, "On Sunday, a Russian SU-35 fighter jet displayed dangerous behavior toward a French Reaper drone conducting a surveillance mission in international airspace over the Eastern Mediterranean."
Stating that the Russian fighter jet passed very close to the French drone three times in succession, in a manner that could have caused the French UAV to lose control, Lecornu argued that this situation demonstrates an intention to restrict free movement in shared international airspace.
Lecornu stated, "This unprofessional and aggressive action is unacceptable. France will continue to strive to defend the freedom of navigation in international air and maritime space."