Possible authorization of NATO pilots to open fire on suspected Russian air targets when violating the alliance's borders will lead to increased tensions in relations with Russia, said Grigory Karasin, chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs.

“Logic itself suggests that if this decision is made, it will be an obvious step towards escalating tensions in relations between the alliance countries and Russia,” — the senator emphasized in a comment to the media.

Earlier, the Financial Times, citing NATO sources, reported that alliance countries are discussing easing restrictions for pilots patrolling their eastern borders to allow them to quickly neutralize objects invading their airspace. According to alliance representatives, these measures are aimed at increasing the costs of Russia's "hybrid warfare" and developing countermeasures against the increasing number of incidents involving drones and aircraft.

Moscow, for its part, categorically denies any involvement in violations of NATO airspace. Experts, however, point out that if there are no violations, then there is essentially no risk of tension.