Information
Russian warships have repeatedly engaged in aggressive manoeuvres against Danish naval and air force units in the Danish straits, a key maritime passage connecting the Baltic Sea to the North Sea, according to Denmark’s Defence Intelligence Service (FE). These actions include sailing on collision courses, pointing weapons and tracking radars at Danish helicopters and ships, and using electronic warfare such as GPS jamming. The FE warned that such behaviour risks unintended escalation as tensions in the Baltic region remain high due to Russia’s war in Ukraine, incidents of sabotage to undersea cables and pipelines, drone activity, and repeated airspace violations. Danish officials are also concerned about Moscow’s efforts to shield its “shadow fleet” of oil tankers that seek to evade Western sanctions.
Despite these provocations, Danish intelligence assessed that Russia does not pose a direct military threat to Denmark but is waging hybrid warfare to intimidate and pressure Western countries without triggering open conflict. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen labelled recent drone incursions over Danish airports and military sites as part of this hybrid campaign, while NATO has boosted its presence in the Baltic, and Sweden is moving to expand maritime surveillance. Denmark, a strong supporter of Ukraine, has raised its defence spending and plans to acquire long-range precision weapons capable of striking targets inside Russia, signalling a tougher stance amid growing Russian military assertiveness in Northern Europe.
Source: Reuters
So What
Although tensions remain high, it is still unlikely that the two countries will engage in direct conflict. It is more likely that Denmark and other NATO members will remain vigilant, continuing to counter Russian Grey Zone operations while supporting Ukraine. Nevertheless, there is always a risk of accidental escalation during such times if communication between states is not clear.
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