France Offers Airspace Security Support to Denmark Amid 'Hybrid Attack' Drone Crisis

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced France's readiness to contribute to the security of Danish airspace, following a series of significant drone intrusions that have disrupted Danish critical infrastructure. The offer comes as Denmark grapples with what its government has described as "hybrid attacks" involving unidentified drones over multiple airports and military installations. This development underscores growing European concerns over airspace violations and potential state-sponsored aggression.

The recent incidents saw several Danish airports, including Aalborg and Copenhagen, temporarily close due to drone sightings. Danish Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen characterized the drone activity as a "systematic operation" by a "professional actor," without directly attributing blame. These incursions have prompted Danish authorities to alert NATO and the European Union, highlighting a vulnerability in the nation's defenses.

The drone disruptions in Denmark are part of a broader pattern of airspace violations across Europe. Similar incidents have been reported in Poland, Estonia, and Norway, with many officials suspecting Russian involvement in these "hybrid warfare" tactics designed to sow fear and test NATO defenses. Russia has consistently denied any involvement in these incidents.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen previously called the Copenhagen incident "the most serious attack on Danish critical infrastructure to date." In response, Denmark is considering invoking NATO's Article 4, which allows members to request consultations when their security is threatened, and is also exploring new legislation to empower infrastructure owners to neutralize drones. European leaders are also discussing the implementation of a "drone wall" to enhance collective defense capabilities.

President Macron's pledge aligns with his earlier statements urging NATO nations to react "more strongly" to Russian incursions. His offer signifies a united front within the alliance to bolster defenses against evolving threats. The ongoing situation emphasizes the urgent need for advanced counter-drone capabilities and coordinated security strategies across the continent.