The shooting down of a Russian warplane over Turkish airspace is preceded by Nato condemnation of earlier violations by Russia of Turkey’s airspace, and here you can begin to see the strategic logic of Turkey’s membership in Nato. Turkey reported incursions by Russia last month, and clearly warned that Russia would be held accountable for any violations in the future. They were held responsible today
I don’t think anyone doubts that this action was taken more in defense of Syria than to protect the integrity of Turkish airspace, with the Turkish government mobilizing Nato support in the hopes of hindering Russia’s military intervention in Syria. It seems doubtful to me that Russia will be willing to openly challenge a Nato member and the 10th strongest military in the world.
Escalation seems doubtful, in my opinion, rather, insha’Allah, this action will advance the agenda of isolating Russia