This striking photo of a Russian SU-24 attack jet passing within metres of the USS Donald Cook in the Baltic Sea as it made its way to Lithuania made headlines in the Baltic region and around the world. A Russian SU-24 buzzes the USS Donald Cook in the Baltic Sea.
This striking photo of a Russian SU-24 attack jet passing within metres of the USS Donald Cook in the Baltic Sea as it made its way to Lithuania made headlines in the Baltic region and around the world. A Russian SU-24 buzzes the USS Donald Cook in the Baltic Sea.
Along with the possible crossing of three Russian helicopters into Lithuanian territory, the multiple passes over the US warship by the Russian jets drew condemnation and criticism from around the world. "We condemn this kind of behaviour. It is reckless. It is provocative. It is dangerous. And under the rules of engagement, that could have been a shoot-down," said US Secretary of State John Kerry.
"Russia is trying to provoke the West in small steps, inch by inch. It is like spitting in someone's face: the Russians are waiting to see whether the US will simply turn the other cheek or wipe the spit and say: if you do that again, I'm gonna kick your ass," said Lithuanian political analyst Deividas Šlekys.
