Danish PM calls incident with Russian frigate serious
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described as serious an incident in which a Russian frigate fired signal rockets toward a Danish military helicopter, linking it to Russia's growing aggression in Europe.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has characterized as serious an incident in which a Russian navy frigate fired signal rockets toward a helicopter belonging to the Danish Armed Forces. Her statement was reported by Danish broadcaster TV2.
At the same time, the prime minister said she does not find it surprising that such an incident occurred so close to Danish waters.
Russian aggression across Europe
Frederiksen said the incident fits into a broader trend being observed across Europe. According to her, Russia is becoming increasingly aggressive and self-assured, intensifying its hybrid war against Europe. She stressed that Russia is testing and challenging NATO, seeking to intimidate and sow discord. Denmark's response to this trend, she said, is to unite more closely and strengthen the defense of both Denmark and Europe.
Circumstances of the incident
The incident occurred on Monday, when a Russian frigate fired two signal rockets toward a Danish military helicopter. In response, Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen convened all defense spokespeople in the Folketing (parliament) for a briefing on the situation.
