Denmark says Russian frigate fired flares at helicopter

Denmark and Russia engaged in a heated exchange on Tuesday following accusations that a Russian frigate fired flares at a Danish military helicopter. Danish authorities stated that the incident occurred during a routine photographic operation near the Russian frigate in international waters off Denmark's southernmost town, Gedser.

The frigate allegedly discharged two flares, one of which passed dangerously close to the helicopter. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen condemned the incident as "reckless action from Russia," emphasizing that such actions would not succeed in intimidating or dividing Denmark. Russian Ambassador to Denmark, Vladimir Barbin, countered that the helicopter was at fault, accusing Denmark of making "provocative actions" against the Russian frigate.

He warned of the potential consequences of such recklessness and vowed to investigate the incident thoroughly. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen expressed concern over the incident, summoning the Russian ambassador for further discussion. Tensions between the two nations have escalated since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with Denmark accusing Russia of hybrid operations on its territory.

In 2025, unidentified drones hovered over Danish airports and a training base for Ukrainian pilots, leading to fears of sabotage. Danish intelligence warned of Russia's preparation for acts of sabotage, including recruiting "ordinary Danes" on social media for planning such acts.