Sweden condemns Russian violation of its airspace

Sweden's defense minister has condemned Russian aircraft for violating the country's airspace.

"The Russian violation of Swedish airspace is of course completely unacceptable," Defense Minister Peter Hultqvist told news agency TT, according to Reuters.

"It will lead to a firm diplomatic response from Sweden. Swedish sovereignty and territory must always be respected," he added.

Swedish JAS 39 Gripen jets were deployed after two Russian SU27 and two SU24 fighter jets entered the country's airspace.

"In the light of the current situation we view this event very seriously," Sweden's Armed Forces said, according to the AP.

The violation comes during Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine and after Russia threatened "military and political consequences" if Sweden and Finland tried to join NATO.

Sweden said this week it would be sending a large amount of medical equipment to Ukraine as its people fights for the nation's sovereignty.