Russian Warships Engage in Provocative Behavior in Danish Straits
Russian warships have repeatedly sailed on collision courses with Danish naval vessels, aimed weapons at Danish air force helicopters, and disrupted navigation systems in Denmark’s straits that connect the Baltic Sea to the North Sea, according to Denmark’s Defence Intelligence Service. These incidents risk unintended escalation and are part of a broader pattern of hybrid warfare against the West.
The Defence Intelligence Service has recorded several incidents in the Danish straits, where Russian warships have sailed on collision courses with Danish vessels during their passage through the straits. Additionally, Russian warships have been anchored in Danish waters for over a week, suggesting possible interference from Moscow if Denmark tried to curb movements of Russia’s “shadow fleet” of tankers used to circumvent Western sanctions on its oil exports imposed over its war with Ukraine.
Danish Defence Intelligence Assesses Russian Actions as Hybrid Warfare
Denmark’s Defence Intelligence Service assesses that Russia is conducting hybrid warfare against Denmark and the broader West. According to Director Thomas Ahrenkiel, “Russia is using military means, including in an aggressive way, to put pressure on us without crossing the line into armed conflict in a traditional sense.” This assessment is based on a range of incidents, including undersea cables being cut, gas pipeline outages, airspace violations, and drone sightings since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
NATO Strengthens Baltic Operations, Sweden Expands Maritime Surveillance
In response to these incidents, NATO has strengthened its Baltic operations, and Sweden has expanded its maritime surveillance capabilities. The White House has also emphasized the seriousness of the situation, with National Security Council officials in constant correspondence with NATO allies and President Biden speaking to many of them as well.
No Direct Military Threat Despite Incidents
Despite the provocative behavior by Russian warships, defence intelligence emphasizes that there is no direct military threat against Denmark. However, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has described recent drone incursions over Danish airports and military installations as a “hybrid attack” on the country. Investigations into these incidents are ongoing, with no conclusions yet.
The situation in the Baltic Sea remains tense, with Russia’s shadow fleet of tankers continuing to pose a challenge to Western sanctions. Denmark’s Defence Intelligence Service will continue to monitor the situation closely, and NATO allies will likely remain vigilant in response to Russian military provocations.
Original Article: Denmark reports repeated Russian naval provocations in its straits — Reuters