Europe has received a strong warning to safeguard its airspace in light of a rising trend of threats termed “hybrid warfare” by a top EU official. The caution comes after a series of unidentified drone infiltrations into European Union airspace, causing significant concern among the public and political leaders, with some officials pointing fingers at Russia. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the EU Commission, urged Europe to act promptly during her address at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
Von der Leyen emphasized the need to recognize the recent airspace breaches as part of an escalating threat pattern, urging Europe to enhance its capability to defend and secure its skies. While not directly accusing Russia of all incidents, she highlighted Russia’s intention to sow division and stressed the importance of a unified response.
Addressing the issue, von der Leyen underlined that countering Russia’s hybrid warfare goes beyond traditional defense measures, requiring a fresh perspective and unity to deter and confront threats. Recent weeks have seen heightened alertness in Europe due to suspected Russian drone incursions leading to airport closures, flight disruptions, and NATO aircraft interception of UAVs entering Poland airspace.
Additional drone sightings across northern Europe, including Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and the Netherlands, have raised concerns. Despite Moscow’s denial of involvement, French authorities detained a Russian shadow fleet tanker off the western coast amid suspicions of launching disruptive drones. Denmark’s Prime Minister also attributed the drones to Moscow, advocating for a robust reaction.
Incidents like drone sightings at Munich airport, resulting in flight cancellations and diversions, have fueled calls for a more stringent response, potentially including the shooting down of drones. European governments suspect Russia of testing NATO defenses and utilizing drones launched from tankers at sea to evade Western oil sanctions.