Europe has received a clear warning to safeguard its airspace due to a rise in threats termed as “hybrid warfare” by a top EU official. The caution comes after a series of unidentified drone intrusions into European Union airspace, causing significant alarm among the public and political leaders, with some attributing the activities to Russia. President of the EU Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, emphasized the need for Europe to act swiftly during a speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
Von der Leyen stated, “Recent airspace breaches are part of an escalating threat pattern. It is crucial to acknowledge this as hybrid warfare.” She emphasized the necessity for Europe to enhance its capabilities to respond and safeguard its airspace. While not directly accusing Russia of all incidents, she highlighted Russia’s intention to create division and emphasized the importance of a unified response.
Addressing the issue, von der Leyen noted, “Addressing Russia’s hybrid warfare goes beyond traditional defense strategies. It demands a new collective approach. We can either ignore the escalating Russian threats or confront them with unity, deterrence, and determination.”
In recent weeks, Europe has remained on high alert following suspected Russian drone intrusions that led to the closure of several airports, resulting in numerous flight diversions and cancellations. Multiple UAVs entered Poland airspace on September 10, prompting NATO aircraft to intervene and intercept some of the drones. Subsequently, NATO jets escorted three Russian warplanes out of Estonia’s airspace.
Additional drone sightings have been reported across northern Europe, including in Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and the Netherlands. Despite Moscow’s consistent denial of involvement, a Russian tanker from the ‘shadow fleet’ was detained by French authorities off the western coast amid allegations of launching disruptive drones. Russian President Putin dismissed the incident as a distraction tactic by France.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen linked the drones to Moscow and advocated for a robust response. Recent drone sightings at Munich airport resulted in the cancellation and diversion of numerous flights, leaving nearly 3,000 passengers stranded on a national holiday evening. Calls for a more stringent reaction, potentially including the downing of drones, have emerged from politicians.
European governments suspect that Russia is testing NATO defenses, with drones possibly being launched from tankers at sea in Putin’s clandestine fleet to evade Western sanctions on oil.