EU to bolster drone defences following Russian airspace violations in Europe

European Union leaders agreed on Wednesday in Copenhagen to strengthen the bloc’s defences against Russian drones after recent airspace intrusions rattled Denmark and other member states.

The summit followed multiple incidents in which Russian drones entered Polish airspace and fighter jets flew over Estonia. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Europe must be able to defend itself and called for increased production of drones and anti-drone systems, along with a European network to neutralise intrusions.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the need for a “drone wall” — a network of sensors and weapons to detect, track, and neutralise drones. She said Europe’s eastern flank would be a priority, though the system would protect the entire continent.

Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo stressed readiness, while French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called for comprehensive approaches, including early-warning systems and deterrence capabilities. NATO forces have already responded to drone incursions with fighter jets, helicopters, and Patriot systems, shooting down several drones.

Russia has denied responsibility for the incidents and criticised Europe’s plans, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov calling a “drone wall” a bad idea.

The Copenhagen meeting also saw EU leaders discuss proposals to use Russian assets frozen in Europe to fund a major loan to Ukraine. While some leaders supported the idea, others expressed caution, and the Kremlin condemned it as “pure theft.”

Copied