On Wednesday, October 1st, EU leaders will meet in Denmark to discuss strengthening Europe’s defences and securing financial aid for Ukraine, following the recent drone activities reported in the Danish airspace.
The leaders are aiming to finalize details for priority projects, including a so-called drone wall. Last week, defence ministers from around 10 countries, mostly along the EU’s eastern flank, began discussions on plans to develop a system capable of detecting and ultimately taking down drones.
“Europe must deliver a strong and united response to Russia’s drone incursions at our borders,” EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said.
Leaders are expected to outline a roadmap addressing Europe’s most urgent defence needs. The 27-nation bloc has already established a €150 billion loan scheme to fund defence spending, with the majority of funds being claimed by eastern member states.
Thousands of police are on high alert, civilian drones have been banned for a week, and NATO allies have sent reinforcements as Denmark—currently holding the EU’s rotating presidency—has over the past days witnessed incursions by unidentified drones, even near military sites, which forced airport closures. Russia has been suspected of what Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen termed a “hybrid attack”—although no culprit has been confirmed.
Nordic neighbours, along with allies from the United States to Ukraine, have sent anti-drone technology and experts to strengthen Denmark’s defences ahead of the summit.
