Airports shut down amid suspected hybrid attack
Mysterious drones forced the closure of Copenhagen Airport on Monday night, marking what Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called “the most serious attack on Danish critical infrastructure to date.” The incident, which also led to a four-hour shutdown at Oslo Airport in Norway, involved two to three large drones operated with clear technical capability, according to Danish police. Officials said the risk of shooting them down was too high due to crowded runways and nearby fuel depots.
Growing concern over Russian involvement
Although no suspects have been identified, Frederiksen said she “cannot rule out that it is Russia,” citing recent incidents over Poland, Romania, and Estonia. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warned Moscow against a “continuation of this dangerous pattern,” saying the alliance stands ready to defend “every inch” of its territory. NATO leaders meeting at the United Nations General Assembly in New York condemned what they described as “escalatory” Russian behavior.
Kremlin denies accusations
The Kremlin dismissed the allegations as “unfounded,” while Moscow’s ambassador to Denmark claimed the incidents were meant to provoke NATO into direct confrontation. Russian officials insisted they had no interest in further escalation. Despite these denials, European leaders expressed alarm, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warning that Europe’s “critical infrastructure is at risk” and vowing a strong response. Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk said his country was prepared to “react toughly” to all airspace violations.
NATO strengthens defenses
The drone incursions come as NATO launches operation “Eastern Sentry” to reinforce defenses along the eastern flank. Discussions are also underway about creating a “drone wall” across Europe’s eastern border. Britain pledged to confront unauthorized aircraft, while the European Union debates tougher protective measures. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in New York for high-level diplomacy, urged allies to move from condemnation to action, stressing that Europe must confront Russia’s tactics with unity and resolve.
