Denmark has banned all civilian drone flights this week ahead of a European Union summit in Copenhagen, the country's transport minister said on Sunday.
The ministry stated that the decision was made in order to 'simplify security work' for the police, and to prevent 'foreign drones creating uncertainty and disruption'.
This action follows recent reported 'drone incidents' in several European countries, including sightings above Danish military sites as recent as Saturday.
Defense ministers from ten EU countries have agreed to establish a 'drone wall' in response to these drone sightings, and NATO has announced enhanced vigilance across the Baltic region.
In their announcement, the Danish transport ministry emphasized that police were on 'significantly increased alert' in anticipation of the summit, insisting that they needed to ensure the safety of both Danes and international guests.
The ban is effective until October 3, with potential penalties for violations including fines or imprisonment for up to two years.
Denmark currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU.
Reports of unidentified drones in Denmark began on September 22, leading to the closure of Copenhagen and Oslo airports. Aalborg and Billund airports also temporarily suspended operations due to drone activity last week.
Investigators in Denmark are yet to ascertain the identity of those operating the drones, with the defense minister describing the occurrences as a 'hybrid attack' and part of a 'systematic operation'.
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that the authorities are still working to determine the origins of these incursions, openly refusing to rule out Russian involvement.
In contrast, the Russian government has categorically denied any connection to the drone incidents in Denmark.
Notably, Europe remains on high alert following multiple reported incursions by Russian drones into airspace of various NATO member states.
In addition to actions taken in Denmark, Norway and Romania reported separate drone activities over the weekend, prompting Norway's aviation authority to investigate drone sightings in proximity to military installations.
