Denmark Bans Civilian Drones Ahead Of EU Summit After Security Threats

Category: News |
Nigeria TV Info — Denmark Imposes Nationwide Civilian Drone Ban Ahead of EU Summit in Copenhagen

Copenhagen, Denmark — The Danish government has imposed a nationwide ban on civilian drone flights ahead of this week’s European Union (EU) summit in Copenhagen, the transport ministry announced on Sunday.

According to the ministry, the measure was introduced to “simplify security work” for police and prevent foreign drones from causing “uncertainty and disruption.” Authorities confirmed that police are on “significantly increased alert” to protect both citizens and visiting delegates.

The ban, which took effect immediately, will remain in place until 3 October, with violations punishable by fines or prison sentences of up to two years.

The move follows a string of drone sightings across Denmark, including incidents reported above military installations on Saturday. Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen described the incidents as part of a “systematic operation” and warned they could be a potential “hybrid attack.”

Unidentified drones have been reported in Denmark since 22 September, forcing temporary shutdowns of Copenhagen and Oslo airports. Last week, operations at Aalborg and Billund airports were also suspended due to drone activity. While Danish investigators have not yet identified those responsible, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen noted that authorities “cannot rule out Russia.” Moscow, however, dismissed the allegations, saying it “firmly rejects” any claims of involvement.

The development comes as defence ministers from ten EU states recently agreed to establish a joint “drone wall” to curb airspace incursions. NATO has also confirmed it has stepped up surveillance across the Baltic region. Denmark, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU, is expected to prioritise the drone security issue during the upcoming summit.

The situation reflects growing European concerns over drone incursions. Poland last week reported about 20 Russian drones entering its territory, while Estonia accused Russian MiG31 jets of violating its airspace.

Elsewhere, Norway and Romania recorded fresh incidents over the weekend. Norway’s airport operator, Avinor, confirmed drone activity above Bronnoysund Airport, while investigations continue into suspected sightings near the country’s largest military base. In Romania, flights were diverted on Sunday after Turkish Airlines pilots reported a drone above Bucharest Airport. The Romanian parliament recently passed legislation authorising the military to shoot down unidentified drones and aircraft.

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