Zelenskyy's Plane 'Almost Hit' by Drone on Way to Oslo, Norwegian PM Says

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store has disclosed a serious security incident involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's aircraft, stating that the presidential jet was "almost hit" by a drone as it took off from Moldova. The event occurred on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, while President Zelenskyy was en route to Oslo, Norway, for a crucial summit with Nordic leaders. Prime Minister Store characterized the incident as "serious" during a press conference held in the Norwegian capital, emphasizing the drone's "very close" proximity to the presidential plane. He further explained that the drone was part of a planned aerial demonstration that had not been adequately coordinated or communicated, leading to the dangerous encounter.

President Zelenskyy had been in Moldova to attend a summit of the European Political Community (EPC), a forum established in 2022 to foster dialogue and cooperation among European nations on issues of common concern, including security and energy. The EPC summit in Moldova brought together leaders from 44 European countries, including Ukraine, aiming to address the continent's challenges in the wake of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Following this engagement, Zelenskyy was scheduled to travel to Oslo to participate in a summit focused on energy security and broader geopolitical stability, particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine. The near-miss incident has consequently amplified concerns regarding the effectiveness of security protocols and airspace management in a region already grappling with heightened geopolitical tensions and the persistent threat of Russian aggression.

Moldova, a nation strategically located bordering Ukraine, has been a significant recipient of international aid and support since February 2022. The country has also faced its own distinct security challenges, including allegations of Russian interference in its domestic affairs and the continued presence of Russian troops in the breakaway region of Transnistria. The reported drone incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent security risks prevalent in Eastern Europe and the complex challenges faced by high-profile individuals traveling through the region. While the Ukrainian President's office had not issued a formal statement at the time of the report, Prime Minister Store's account underscores a significant security lapse during a high-stakes international trip, raising questions about the safety of aerial operations in proximity to presidential travel.