Russian Naval Provocations Escalate Security Risks In Baltic, Danish Straits

Russian warships have repeatedly engaged in provocative actions in Denmark's straits, including sailing on collision courses with Danish vessels, targeting Danish naval ships with weapons, and disrupting navigation systems, according to the Danish Defence Intelligence Service. These actions are seen as part of a hybrid war waged by Russia against Denmark and the West, involving tactics such as sonar and GPS jamming, and the presence of a Russian warship anchored in Danish waters suspected to protect Russia's 'shadow fleet' circumventing Western sanctions. The Baltic region remains on high alert amid these ongoing provocations, which have increased since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with Denmark boosting its military capabilities in response. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk highlighted that provocations from Russia in the Baltic Sea occur almost daily, describing the situation as a new, complex form of war combining conventional and hybrid tactics, including disinformation and migratory pressures orchestrated by Russia and Belarus. European leaders, including those from Denmark, Poland, and the European Commission, emphasize the importance of defensive measures such as anti-drone walls, despite some differing opinions among EU members. The situation underscores heightened tensions and the risk of unintended escalation in the Baltic region due to Russia's aggressive naval activities and hybrid warfare strategies.