After high-profile violations of NATO airspace by Russia over Poland and Estonia, alliance members have appeared at odds over how forcefully to react.

While some have seemed to advocate for shooting down any jets breaching NATO's border, others have warned about getting dragged into a conflict.

But behind all the noise, the differences may not be that great -- and the Western defence alliance says its line is clear: if there is a direct threat, then it is ready to shoot.

"It's a bit of an artificial debate. No changes are foreseen to these rules," said one NATO diplomat on condition of anonymity.

Here's what allies are saying and where NATO stands:

NATO's eastern flank countries, who feel themselves most directly threatened by Russia, have led the way in calling for a stronger line.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said Warsaw would "react toughly" to any violations, and his top diplomat Radoslaw Sikorski told Moscow not to "whine" if its jets are taken out.

Lithuania's defence minister Dovile Sakaliene said NATO-member Turkey "set an example 10 years ago"........

© International Business Times