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Denmark Summons Russia Over Flare Attack on Helicopter

By Drooid · Sep 15, 2026, 10:18 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Russia Fires Flares

Denmark says a Russian frigate fired two flares at a Danish helicopter in waters.
The helicopter was on a routine photographic mission of the Russian warship.
One flare passed close, leaving the helicopter and crew unharmed.
Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen called the act unacceptable and summoned Russia’s ambassador to Copenhagen.
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen condemned the reckless action and said Denmark will not waver.

Summary

Germany Closes Consulate

Danish Security and Intelligence Service disclosed Russian sabotage plans targeting Danish companies, including a northern Jutland drone firm.
Russia’s Defence Ministry earlier listed European firms aiding Ukraine and named the Skywatch address as a potential target.
German security services found suspected Russian drones with explosive traces at Leipzig/Halle Airport, prompting diplomatic actions.
Berlin shut down a Russian cultural centre in response.
Bonn closed Russia’s consulate general in response.

History

Historical Context

On 12 February 1988 USS Yorktown and USS Caron exercised innocent passage in the Black Sea when Soviet frigate Bezzavetny bumped Yorktown, causing minor hull damage and prompting the USSR to agree to negotiate passage rights. The episode is cited as a lesson for today’s allies; Denmark’s minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen condemned a Russian frigate’s flare attack on a Danish helicopter, and NATO is tightening Baltic maritime rules.

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Russia Fires Flares

Denmark says a Russian frigate fired two flares at a Danish helicopter in waters.
The helicopter was on a routine photographic mission of the Russian warship.
One flare passed close, leaving the helicopter and crew unharmed.
Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen called the act unacceptable and summoned Russia’s ambassador to Copenhagen.
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen condemned the reckless action and said Denmark will not waver.

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