Denmark Urges EU NATO Strengthen Defence Against Russia's Hybrid War

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has issued urgent calls for Europe to strengthen its defense capabilities in response to what she describes as Russia's ongoing hybrid war against the continent. Speaking at an EU summit in Copenhagen, Frederiksen highlighted recent incursions by Russian drones into NATO airspace, including over Denmark, Poland, Estonia, and Romania, which serve as tests of European defenses and attempts to sow division. The EU is considering establishing a multi-layered "drone wall" to detect and neutralize unmanned aerial vehicles, and discussions are underway to enhance counter-drone and cyber defense capabilities. Frederiksen emphasized that Russia remains Europe’s primary threat, necessitating a robust and unified response from EU nations and NATO. While no definitive proof has linked Russia to all recent drone incidents, EU leaders, including European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron, acknowledge the pattern of hybrid warfare and the need for caution and preparedness. International allies, including the US, Poland, the UK, and others, have provided support to Denmark to secure the summit and bolster regional defenses amid these heightened tensions.