Denmark Imposes Nationwide Ban on Civilian Drone Flights Ahead of EU Summit

Mon Oct 20 2025 06:05:55 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a move to enhance security during the upcoming EU summit in Copenhagen, Denmark has announced a complete ban on all civilian drone flights, citing recent drone incidents that have raised concerns.

Denmark is taking stringent security measures ahead of the European Union summit in Copenhagen by banning all civilian drone flights. The decision aims to prevent disruptions caused by unidentified drones, which have been reported near military sites and airports. The ban is in effect until October 3 and could result in significant penalties for violators. Support from neighboring countries and heightened police vigilance are part of the efforts to ensure the safety of the summit.

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 to simplify security work for the police and to prevent foreign drones creating uncertainty and disruption.

In recent weeks, Denmark, along with several other European countries, has experienced reports of drone incidents, with unidentified drones sighted above military sites as recently as Saturday.

As a response to the increasing concerns, defence ministers from ten EU countries have agreed to establish a drone wall, and NATO has expressed that it has enhanced vigilance throughout the Baltic region.

In their statement regarding the ban, the transport ministry mentioned that police are on significantly increased alert for this week's summit and emphasized the need to protect Danes and our guests.

The ban is set to remain in effect until October 3, with violations leading to fines or imprisonment for up to two years.

In support of Denmark's security measures, Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced military support with anti-drone capabilities, stating that powerful radar systems had already been provided. France has also pledged assistance, deploying a specialized helicopter along with a team of 35 experts.

Denmark currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU.

Reports of unidentified drones in Denmark date back to September 22, when several sightings forced the closures of Copenhagen and Oslo airports. Aalborg and Billund airports also suspended operations due to drone activity last week.

Danish investigators have not yet identified the responsible parties for these flights, but the defence minister described it as a hybrid attack pointing to a possible systematic operation.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has stated that investigations are ongoing, and she has not ruled out the possibility of Russian involvement. Moscow has denied any claims of its participation in these incidents.

The situation follows heightened tensions in Europe, where several NATO member states have reported incursions into their airspaces by Russian entities.

In addition, authorities in Norway and Romania reported drone incidents over the weekend, leading to increased scrutiny regarding airspace safety in the region.