Russian state-controlled media are circulating theories that Ukraine, not Russia, is behind recent drone incidents in Danish airspace. The reports suggest a provocation aimed at escalating tensions between NATO and Russia.
Drone Intrusions Spark International Attention
In the past week, a series of unidentified drones have been observed flying near Danish airports, including Copenhagen, prompting both national and international security concerns. While Danish authorities have not yet confirmed who is behind the activity, the events have gained significant attention – not just in Denmark, but also in Russia.
Russian state-operated media outlets such as Komsomolskaya Pravda and RIA Novosti have published multiple articles pointing the finger not at Russia, but rather at Ukraine. The coverage follows a now-familiar media pattern seen before during hybrid tactics employed by Russia in the Baltic region and Ukraine.
Russian Media Claims: Ukraine Responsible
According to Russian MPs and analysts quoted in these reports, Ukraine has allegedly deployed “refurbished Soviet-era drones and missiles” to fly across European airspace, including Denmark. The supposed aim is to incite conflict between Russia and NATO members, thereby increasing Western military support for Ukraine.
A member of Russia’s parliament and deputy representative of the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula accused Ukraine of orchestrating terror provocations. Analysts from the state-aligned RIA Novosti suggested that the drone activity was directed at “defenseless European civilians” as part of a psychological warfare campaign.
Such claims are not supported by any verifiable evidence and have been dismissed by Western analysts as propaganda designed to shift focus away from Russia’s role in ongoing hybrid confrontations.
Russian Officials Distance Themselves from the Incident
Following the initial announcement of drone sightings over Copenhagen Airport on Monday, Russian news agencies first offered coverage without much commentary. However, the narrative shifted significantly after a Kremlin spokesperson publicly denied that Russia had any role in the incidents.
The Russian Foreign Ministry also weighed in, warning that “orchestrated drone provocations” could push the world closer to a broader conflict. The ministry’s spokesperson pushed the idea that the West is using Ukraine as a proxy to provoke Russia and warned of the risks of triggering a global war.
Meanwhile, Russia’s foreign minister addressed the United Nations General Assembly, stating that Western countries were fabricating accusations against Russia with the aim of justifying military build-up along NATO’s eastern flank.
Denmark Alert but Cautious
While no one has claimed responsibility for the drone intrusions, security analysts in Denmark and NATO remain on high alert. Military analyst Anders Puck Nielsen noted that discussions are underway within NATO about how to respond if Russian aircraft or drones violate alliance airspace.
Although the drone incidents have not led to any official change in NATO’s posture, concerns are mounting. According to data from the Danish Civil Aviation Authority, at least five separate drone sightings were recorded in and around Copenhagen Airport within three days – an unusually high figure that prompted temporary shutdowns of airspace.
Additionally, drones were reported in sensitive areas of eastern Jutland and on the island of Bornholm, key locations for Danish radar and defense systems.
Strategic Communication Mirrors Previous Tactics
Claus Borg Reinholdt, a Danish correspondent with years of experience in Russia, explained that the information campaign rolled out by Russian media follows a familiar pattern: initial denial, followed by deflection and unfounded counter-accusations.
This method has previously been used in conflicts involving Georgia, Ukraine, and in cyber incidents across Europe. By accusing Ukraine without evidence, analysts argue, Russia aims to create confusion and undermine trust in Western institutions.
Escalation Risks Remain Low – For Now
Despite the propaganda campaign, NATO has not signaled any immediate plans to alter its engagement in Ukraine or posture in Denmark. The drone incidents, while concerning, have not crossed what analysts describe as Russia’s primary red line: the direct deployment of NATO troops into active combat zones in Ukraine.
Nonetheless, military experts warn that the West must remain vigilant. With over 9,000 confirmed drone incidents in European airspace since the war began in Ukraine, both NATO readiness and public awareness must remain high in order to respond swiftly to evolving threats.
