Ireland’s PM rejects Russia’s denial of drone sightings near Dublin Airport during Zelensky’s visit, linking it to Russian hybrid threats.

Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin dismissed the Russian embassy’s denial of involvement in drones spotted near Dublin Airport during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s November 2025 visit, calling the statement "rumours and innuendo" and citing Russia’s past misleading claims. He linked the incident to a broader pattern of Russian hybrid threats across Europe, noting the timing amid high-level diplomatic talks on Ukraine’s future funding. Gardaí, supported by the Defence Forces and international partners, are investigating, with a National Security Council report due within a week. European Council President Antonio Costa expressed confidence in Ireland’s ability to secure the upcoming European Council meeting, framing the event as evidence of ongoing Russian aggression.