The Kremlin strongly rejected allegations that a drone, which was intercepted in Swedish waters, had Russian origins. This response came after Swedish officials noted a significant connection to Moscow, particularly because the drone was spotted near the French nuclear aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, which was docked in Malmo as part of a NATO mission. The Swedish military confirmed that the drone was jammed by a naval vessel, indicating operational military engagement near the site.

Sweden's Defence Minister emphasized that the evidence suggests the drone likely originated from Russia, given the geopolitical context and the timing of the drone's presence near the NATO military exercises. The incident raises concerns about potential Russian surveillance activity in close proximity to allied naval forces, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions in European security dynamics.

The Kremlin's outright dismissal of the allegations as 'absurd' serves to underscore Russia's broader strategy to deflect accusations of military provocations in the region. This incident illustrates the increasing complexity of military interactions between NATO forces and Russia, as well as the challenges in maintaining security and transparency in maritime zones where such multinational exercises occur.