Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Macron Warns of Drone Threats


(MENAFN) French President Emmanuel Macron issued a strong warning on Thursday regarding unauthorized drone activity in European skies.

Speaking during the European Political Community summit in Copenhagen, Macron declared that drones encroaching on European airspace "can be destroyed."

This comes amid growing concerns among European leaders over what are believed to be recent Russian incursions into the continent's airspace.

Macron emphasized the necessity of sending a firm and unmistakable message. "It's very important to have a clear message: Drones which would violate our territories, are just taking a big risk. They can be destroyed," he asserted.

His comments reflect a broader commitment by European nations to defend their skies and borders from potential external threats.

The French leader reaffirmed his country’s readiness to uphold the safety and sovereignty of its skies and land.

"We are ready and we are in the position to preserve our air and our territorial integrity," he stated. Macron also highlighted that this preparedness extends along NATO’s Eastern Flank, and does not undermine ongoing commitments to support Ukraine.

"We are ready on the Eastern Flank of NATO, and we are ready at the same time and on top of that, and without reducing this commitment to provide security guarantees for Ukraine," he continued.

In an earlier interview published on Wednesday by a news outlet, Macron took a firm stance regarding possible future provocations.

He indicated that France would not exclude any options if a Russian military aircraft were to breach European skies.

"In line with the doctrine of strategic ambiguity, I can tell you that nothing is off the table," he remarked.

Several European Union member nations, such as Poland, Romania, Latvia, Estonia, Norway, and Denmark, have recently reported instances of airspace intrusions or disturbances involving drones.

These incidents have heightened regional security concerns and underscored the urgency for a coordinated response.

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