EU Leaders Unite to Counter Hybrid Threats: "Drone Wall" on the Agenda

EU Leaders Discuss Building 'Drone Wall' After Hybrid Attack COPENHAGEN, DENMARK - European Union leaders gathered for informal talks on Wednesday, discussing a range of pressing issues including trade, the war in Ukraine, and security. However, a new topic dominated the agenda: building a "drone wall" to defend against suspected Russian drones that have caused chaos across Europe. According to sources, several countries have reported mysterious drone sightings in recent weeks, with Denmark experiencing disruptions at its airports last week. Danish officials described the incidents as part of a hybrid attack, which also included cyberattacks. NATO fighter jets shot down Russian drones in Poland last month, sparking concerns about President Vladimir Putin's intentions. "We're seeing a new level of aggression from Russia," said EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell. "We need to take concrete measures to protect our airspace and citizens." The concept of a "drone wall" has been floated as a potential solution to prevent future intrusions. This would involve deploying advanced surveillance systems, radar technology, and potentially even armed drones to detect and intercept suspicious aircraft. Experts warn that the use of drones in hybrid attacks is becoming increasingly sophisticated. "We're seeing a blurring of lines between cyber and physical threats," said cybersecurity expert, Dr. Maria Rodriguez. "It's no longer just about hacking into systems; it's about using drones to disrupt critical infrastructure." The EU leaders' discussion on the drone wall comes as Europe ramps up support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. President Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and the war shows no signs of abating. President Donald Trump tweeted "Here we go!" in response to the incident without providing further explanation. While some have speculated about his intentions, others see it as a sign of growing unease among world leaders about Russia's actions. The EU leaders' meeting is expected to continue into Thursday, with officials working towards a joint statement on the drone wall and other pressing issues. As the situation unfolds, experts emphasize the need for international cooperation and coordination to address the evolving threat landscape. "We're facing a new era of hybrid warfare," said Dr. Rodriguez. "It's time for us to come together and develop effective strategies to counter these threats." The EU leaders' discussion on the drone wall marks a significant shift in their approach to security, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to address emerging challenges. Background: The concept of a "drone wall" is not new; it has been discussed in various forms since 2020. However, recent incidents have brought renewed attention to the idea. Implications: The use of drones in hybrid attacks poses significant risks to critical infrastructure and national security. International cooperation and coordination are essential to address this evolving threat landscape. The EU leaders' discussion on the drone wall marks a significant shift in their approach to security, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to emerging challenges. Next Developments: The EU leaders are expected to issue a joint statement on the drone wall and other pressing issues. International cooperation and coordination efforts will continue to address the evolving threat landscape. Experts warn that the use of drones in hybrid attacks is becoming increasingly sophisticated, emphasizing the need for continued innovation and adaptation. *Reporting by Gizmodo.*