Drones Spotted Near Zelenskiy’s Flight Path in Ireland Trigger Security Alert

An Irish naval vessel detected as many as five drones operating close to the flight path of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s aircraft as he arrived in Ireland for a state visit, according to local media reports on Thursday. The unexpected drone activity prompted a significant security alert amid concerns that the devices may have been attempting to interfere with the president’s arrival, the Irish Times reported. Sources cited by the outlet said Zelenskiy’s plane, which landed slightly earlier than scheduled, was never in immediate danger.

Zelenskiy and the Ukrainian delegation arrived late Monday and left the following day as part of a broader European tour aimed at strengthening support for Kyiv as Russia continues its offensive in Ukraine. Ukrainian media quoted presidential adviser Dmytro Lytvyn, who confirmed officials were informed about the drone sightings. He emphasized that Irish authorities, as the hosts, were responsible for security and determined that no changes to the visit were necessary. According to Lytvyn, while the presence of drones was verified, they did not disrupt the president’s schedule or pose a direct threat.

Europe has recently faced a surge in unidentified drone flights disrupting airspace operations, prompting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to label the incursions as potential “hybrid warfare.” The Journal, the first outlet to report the Dublin Airport incident, noted that the drones appeared at the precise point where Zelenskiy’s plane was originally expected to pass. Investigators are now working to determine whether the drones originated from land or an undetected vessel. Reports indicate they were first observed northeast of Dublin, roughly 20 kilometers from the airport.

Ireland’s Defence Forces declined to comment on specific operational details but confirmed that coordinated security efforts with national police ensured a safe and successful visit.