'Reckless' — Russian frigate fires flares at Danish military helicopter near Denmark

A Russian frigate discharged two emergency flares at a Danish military helicopter in international waters close to Denmark on September 15, the Danish Armed Forces reported. One flare passed within a short distance of the aircraft, according to the Danish military. The helicopter was engaged in routine monitoring of the Russian warship near Gedser, Denmark's southernmost town, when the flares were launched, the military explained.

Denmark has summoned Russian Ambassador Vladimir Barbin in response to the incident, with Danish officials condemning it as an unacceptable act towards the nation's military. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen labeled the incident as "reckless action from Russia," emphasizing that Russian actions aim to intimidate and divide, but will fail.

Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen also described the incident as "completely unacceptable." This event occurs as Denmark, a NATO member, confronts escalating tensions with Russia while simultaneously facing pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Greenland. In October 2025, Danish defense intelligence reported that Russian warships had aimed weapons at Danish naval vessels and interfered with the country's navigation systems.