Russia Waged A Drone Campaign In Europe

Russia likely used shadow ships to launch drones over Europe that repeatedly disrupted civilian aviation, as it monitored military sites and tested the air defenses of NATO nations. That’s according to a report published Thursday by the International Institute of Strategic Studies think tank. The report was shared before publication with The Associated Press. It plotted 144 suspected drone sightings across Europe between 2024 and 2026, including in several NATO countries. Those sightings peaked in late 2025, forcing the temporary closure of several European airports, including in Germany, Spain and Denmark.