EU leaders are meeting in Copenhagen under pressure to boost European defence after a series of Russian incursions into EU airspace, and days after drones targeted Danish airports.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen told reporters that 'from a European perspective there is only one country... willing to threaten us and that is Russia, and therefore we need a very strong answer back'.
The incursions have become most acute for countries on the EU's eastern flank such as Poland and Estonia.
A number of member states have already backed plans for a multi-layered 'drone wall' to quickly detect, then track and destroy Russian drones.
Denmark has beefed up security for the summit, banning all civilian drone flights until Friday and placing heavy restrictions on traffic in Copenhagen.
As host to dozens of European leaders over two days, Denmark will want to fend off any more unwelcome surprises in its air space. Danish police have not found any evidence that Russia was behind last week's drone disruption, but Frederiksen linked it explicitly to other hybrid attacks such as Russia's drone incursion over Poland.
The war in Ukraine is very serious, she reflected, noting that Europe is facing the most dangerous situation since the end of World War II.
International allies have provided support, including a German frigate docking in Copenhagen as part of efforts to bolster air defenses. Sweden has also loaned powerful radar systems to Denmark for monitoring.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz voiced concerns over the worsening drone incursions and remarked on the necessity for increased security measures.
In light of this situation, the EU is preparing a 'road map' for improved defense readiness and cooperation with NATO, ensuring that Europe can face the challenges of modern warfare.
