Denmark has imposed a nationwide ban on civilian drone flights ahead of this week’s European Union summit in Copenhagen, the transport ministry announced on Sunday.
The ministry said the measure was introduced to “simplify security work” for police and ensure that “foreign drones [do not] create uncertainty and disruption.” Authorities confirmed that police are on “significantly increased alert” to protect both citizens and visiting delegates.
The ban will remain in place until 3 October, with violations punishable by fines or prison terms of up to two years. The move comes after repeated drone sightings across Denmark, including incidents above military sites on Saturday, which the defence minister described as part of a “systematic operation” and a possible “hybrid attack.”
Unidentified drones have been reported since 22 September, forcing temporary closures of Copenhagen and Oslo airports. Operations at Aalborg and Billund airports were also suspended last week due to drone activity. Danish investigators have not identified those responsible, and Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said authorities “cannot rule out Russia” while inquiries continue. Moscow responded by saying it “firmly rejects” any suggestion of involvement.
Defence ministers from ten EU states recently agreed to create a joint “drone wall” to counter incursions, while Nato confirmed it had “enhanced vigilance” across the Baltic region. Denmark, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU, is expected to prioritise the security issue during the summit.
The reports in Denmark mirror wider European concerns. Estonia and Poland sought Nato consultations last week after Polish officials said around 20 Russian drones crossed into their territory and Estonian authorities reported violations by Russian MiG31 jets.
Elsewhere, Norway and Romania also recorded incidents over the weekend. Norwegian airport operator Avinor confirmed drone “activity” above Bronnoysund Airport, while separate investigations are under way into possible sightings near Norway’s largest military base. In Romania, flights were diverted on Sunday after Turkish Airlines pilots reported a drone above Bucharest Airport. Romania has already passed new legislation empowering its air force to shoot down unidentified aircraft and drones.