Denmark Enforces Drone Flight Ban Ahead of EU Summit Amid Security Concerns

Tue Oct 14 2025 20:15:40 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

To enhance security during a crucial European summit, Denmark has prohibited all civilian drone flights, citing recent drone incidents near military sites and a need for heightened vigilance.

In light of increasing drone sightings and security concerns, Denmark has imposed a ban on all civilian drone flights until October 3, ahead of the upcoming EU summit in Copenhagen. This measure aims to alleviate security burdens on police, as recent reports of unidentified drones near military sites have raised alarms. The ban, which could lead to heavy penalties for violators, follows similar drone incidents across multiple European countries, prompting discussions of a regional defense strategy. Authorities continue to investigate the origins of these drone activities and potential links to external threats.

Denmark has banned all civilian drone flights this week ahead of a European Union summit in Copenhagen, the country's transport minister announced on Sunday.

The ministry noted that the decision was made to simplify security work for the police, emphasizing that they could not permit foreign drones creating uncertainty and disruption.

Recent weeks have seen multiple drone incidents reported across several European countries, with drones spotted near Danish military sites as of Saturday.

In response, defense ministers from ten EU nations have collectively proposed the creation of a drone wall, while NATO has strengthened surveillance efforts in the Baltic region.

The transport ministry declared that police are on significantly increased alert ahead of the summit, highlighting the need to ensure safety for Danes and visiting delegates.

The drone ban will remain in effect until October 3, with any violations potentially leading to fines or imprisonment for up to two years.

Denmark currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU and has reported unidentified drone sightings since September 22, prompting the temporary closure of airports in Copenhagen and Oslo.

Last week, Aalborg and Billund airports also suspended operations due to similar drone activities.

Investigators have yet to identify those responsible for the flights, but the defense minister described it as a hybrid attack indicative of a systematic operation.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has indicated that authorities are actively investigating potential links to foreign entities, including Russia, which has denied any involvement.

This incident comes amid heightened tensions in Europe, where several NATO member states have reported incursions in their airspace.

Following these developments, Estonia and Poland sought consultations with other NATO members regarding recent drone incursions.

In addition to the oddities in Denmark, separate drone incidents have also been reported by Norway and Romania over the weekend, leading to further security reviews across the region.