Denmark is contemplating invoking NATO’s Article 4 after drone sightings, the second this week, forced airport closures in the country.
Following the threat, Denmark contacted both NATO and the European Union.
Copenhagen is reportedly evaluating the invocation of NATO’s Article 4, a measure that would convene a meeting for alliance members. Secretary-General Mark Rutte has not made public statements on the matter.
According to Euronews, Danish Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen affirmed in a joint statement that Denmark is committed to “finding the people who are behind this.”
He stated, “We possess various military capabilities, including F-35s and our frigates, that can aid in Denmark’s defense.”
Allegedly, smaller airports within the country also experienced drone activity but remained unaffected.
According to the BBC, Danish authorities characterized the incident as a “hybrid attack” carried out by a “professional actor.” The outlet added that authorities specified the drones were launched locally and were not from Russia.
Copenhagen Airport was affected by a similar drone incident on Monday. In contrast to the Aalborg incident, some speculated Russia might have been responsible for this attack.
Reports indicate Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called the incident “the most serious attack on Danish critical infrastructure to date.” She also stated that the country was “not ruling out any options in relation to who is behind it.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen remarked on Tuesday, as reported by Euronews, that “The drones that halted flights at Copenhagen Airport were part of a pattern of persistent contestation at our borders.”
Euronews also reported that Oslo Airport in Norway was closed for three hours on Monday evening, citing potential threats from drone activity.
Digital reached out to NATO for comment.