Denmark Summons Russian Ambassador After Frigate Fires Flares at Helicopter

Denmark summoned Russian Ambassador Vladimir Barbin after a Russian frigate fired two flares toward a Danish Air Force Fennec helicopter in international waters off Gedser. Denmark's Defense Command said the helicopter was conducting routine photographic coverage and that one flare passed close to the aircraft. Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen called the incident completely unacceptable. The Russian Embassy said Barbin described the helicopter's conduct as provocative and dangerous, while the Danish side said the flight was routine and in international waters.