Russian frigate fires flares towards Danish military helicopter, says Denmark

COPENHAGEN - A Russian frigate discharged two flares near a Danish military helicopter during a routine mission to photograph the vessel, according to Denmark's defence command. The incident occurred in international waters off the Danish coast on Monday, narrowly avoiding the aircraft. One flare passed within close proximity to the helicopter.

The Danish defence command reported the event in a statement released late on Monday. One of the flares, typically used as a warning signal at sea, came perilously close to the helicopter. Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen condemned the incident as "unacceptable," stating it could have endangered human lives. Rasmussen emphasized Denmark's commitment to ensuring peaceful passage for shipping through Danish waters, but criticized Russia for gradually shifting the line of what it deems acceptable behavior.

In response to the incident, Rasmussen summoned Russia's ambassador to Denmark for a meeting. The Russian embassy has not yet provided a comment on the matter.