August M
Irish authorities have launched an investigation after drones were detected northeast of Dublin at the same time President Volodymyr Zelensky’s aircraft was expected to pass through the area, news.ro reports
The sightings raised concerns about a potential attempt to interfere with the visit, which focused on strengthening Kyiv’s European support as Russia’s war continues, news.ro reported.
Suspicious timing
According to The Journal, the drones first appeared northeast of Dublin, roughly 20km from the airport, coinciding precisely with the moment Zelensky’s plane was due to pass.
The Irish Times, citing anonymous sources, said the aircraft arrived slightly ahead of schedule and was never in immediate danger.
The Ukrainian delegation landed late Monday and departed the following night after a series of meetings aimed at securing continued backing for Ukraine.
Kyiv informed
Ukrainian adviser Dmytro Litvin told Ukrainian media that officials were notified of the drone activity but were assured it posed no threat.
“The host side is responsible for security,” he said, adding that no adjustments to the visit were required.
Irish authorities have opened investigations to determine where the drones originated — either from land or potentially from an undetected vessel offshore.
Security response
The Irish Defence Forces declined to discuss operational details but confirmed they supported a Garda-led security operation through “multiple means”, ensuring the visit remained safe.
European airspace has seen a surge in unexplained drone activity in recent months. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has described these incursions as a form of “hybrid warfare”.
Sources: news.ro; The Journal; Irish Times.
