Denmark ups energy sector security after drone sightings

Denmark has raised the security level for energy facilities because of the risk of sabotage and hybrid attacks, the government said Tuesday, after mysterious drone flights were spotted across the Nordic country.

Energy Minister Lars Aagaard told Danish media that the sector's "preparedness level" had been raised to orange, the second-highest level.

"Ultimately, we fear that someone will challenge our energy supply, and a country without an energy supply is a country that does not function," Aagaard told broadcaster TV2.

Recent drone sightings across Denmark have prompted the closure of several airports, including Copenhagen's -- the largest airport in northern Europe.

Drones were also observed over Danish military sites, but no new sightings have been reported since September 27.

Copenhagen is to host an EU summit on Wednesday and Thursday.

To ensure security around the summit, Denmark on Sunday said it was closing airspace to all civilian drone flights until Friday, so that enemy drones would not be confused for legal ones.

"It's more than just the drone activity," Aagard told TV2.

"It's about looking at the world's energy infrastructure and being more aware," he added.

The last time Denmark raised the security level for its energy facilities was in September 2022 after the sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipeline in the Baltic Sea.