According to the Danish Armed Forces, the helicopter was carrying out routine photographic surveillance of the Russian vessel near Gedser when the incident occurred. One of the flares reportedly passed close to the helicopter.
The incident has sparked concern in Copenhagen as European governments continue to accuse Russia of increasing hybrid activities aimed at creating instability and division across Europe.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said the incident was part of a broader pattern being observed across Europe. She warned that Russia’s increasingly assertive behaviour is testing NATO and attempting to intimidate European countries and create divisions.
Frederiksen said Denmark and its European allies must respond by strengthening cooperation and defence capabilities.
Denmark has also summoned Russia’s ambassador to discuss the incident. Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen described the firing of flares at the Danish helicopter as “completely unacceptable” and said the Russian envoy would be asked to explain the crew’s actions.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and European countries, with NATO members facing growing concerns over military and hybrid activities linked to Moscow.