European Leaders Convene Amid Heightened Security in Copenhagen Following Drone Incidents

Fri Oct 10 2025 20:45:08 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As European leaders gather in Copenhagen, Denmark beefs up security in response to drone disruptions and potential Russian threats, focusing on enhanced defense strategies.

In the wake of drone disruptions and escalating security concerns, European leaders are meeting in Copenhagen to discuss defense strategies amid fears of Russian incursions. Denmark has increased security measures, banning civilian drone flights and receiving international support. The aim is to bolster air defenses and evaluate plans for a multi-layered drone detection strategy as the region fortifies its eastern borders.

EU leaders gather in Copenhagen on Wednesday under pressure to boost European defence after a series of Russian incursions into EU airspace, and days after drones targeted Danish airports.

The incursions have become most acute for countries on the EU's eastern flank such as Poland and Estonia. Ten member states have already backed plans for a multi-layered drone wall to quickly detect, then track and destroy Russian drones.

Denmark has beefed up security ahead of the summit, banning all civilian drone flights until Friday and placing heavy restrictions on traffic in Copenhagen. Despite the high security, there was little evidence of alarm in the centre of the capital ahead of the summit.

Denmark will also host a broader European Political Community summit on Thursday and international allies have lent support to ensure both events pass without incident. Copenhagen airport, followed by several Danish airports and military sites on the Jutland peninsula, faced drone disruption last week.

Anti-drone and surveillance support has been brought in from Poland, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden and the US. A German frigate has also docked in Copenhagen.

Stockholm has loaned a handful of powerful radar systems to its neighbour for the two summits, according to Kristersson. Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv is sending a mission to Denmark for joint exercises to provide Ukrainian experience in drone defence.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said ahead of the summit that air space incursions were getting worse and it was reasonable to assume the drones are coming from Russia. Drones have been seen in recent days over Germany's northern state of Schleswig-Holstein, leading to flights being delayed at several airports.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov rejected accusations of Russian involvement and suggested Europe should seek dialogue on security issues. EU leaders are expected to outline plans to enhance military capabilities and cooperation as they meet amidst the backdrop of increasing regional tensions and hybrid warfare threats.