Copenhagen: European Union member states met in Copenhagen to discuss establishing a ‘drone wall’ to protect the continent from potential Russian drone incursions, following a series of airspace violations that led to the temporary closure of several Danish airports.
According to Qatar News Agency, several European nations pledged support for Denmark by deploying counter-drone systems and forces to secure the EU summit taking place in the Danish capital. The move comes amid rising concerns over repeated airspace breaches, with the EU accusing Russia of blatant violations, including drone intrusions over Poland and fighter jet incursions into Estonian airspace in recent weeks.
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo stated that Russia will continue these actions and that Europe must be prepared and strengthen its readiness. He voiced support for the proposed ‘drone wall’ – a network of sensors and defensive systems designed to detect, track, and neutralize drones.
While Denmark has not officially named a culprit for last week’s incidents, which disrupted operations at multiple airports, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen indicated that Russia is a likely suspect. The idea of a drone wall was first floated last month by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, after approximately 20 Russian drones reportedly entered Polish airspace.
In a related move, Denmark’s Ministry of Transport announced a nationwide ban on civilian drone flights this week to ensure security during the high-level EU summit on Monday and Tuesday.