Baltic Sea Tensions: Russian Warship Fires Flares Toward Danish Military Helicopter
A Russian frigate reportedly fired two flares toward a Danish Fennec military helicopter on Monday as it conducted a routine photographic mission over the Baltic Sea.
The helicopter was flying in international waters off Gedser, southern Denmark, when the flares allegedly passed close to the aircraft. No prior radio communication had reportedly been established between the two sides.
The Danish Armed Forces confirmed the incident. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen condemned the Russian action as “reckless,” warning that such behavior seeks to “intimidate and divide.”
Russia’s ambassador to Denmark, Vladimir Barbin, said Moscow would investigate the incident while accusing Danish forces of provoking the confrontation.
The incident adds to growing tensions between Russia and NATO in the Baltic Sea.