Unidentified Drones Track Zelenskyy’s Flight Path During Irish State Visit

Four unidentified military-grade drones tracked the flight path of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska during their official visit to Ireland, The Journal reported on December 4.

The presidential aircraft touched down at Dublin Airport slightly ahead of its scheduled arrival. However, the drones arrived at the airspace where the plane was originally expected, exactly on time, raising red flags among security personnel.

Afterward, the drones began circling an Irish Navy vessel that had been secretly stationed in the Irish Sea in response to the high-profile visit. Despite the perceived threat, Irish authorities chose not to engage the drones, as the ship lacked proper counter-drone technology.

Unnamed sources told The Journal that the drones were launched from northeast Dublin and remained airborne for up to two hours. The Irish police have launched an investigation, though the operators behind the incident remain unidentified.

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Law enforcement officials believe the intent may have been to disrupt the president’s arrival. Notably, the drones had visible lights turned on, suggesting a deliberate attempt to be seen.

Ireland’s Police Commissioner was notified of the event on the morning of December 2, and the prime minister, justice minister, and defense minister were briefed shortly afterward. It remains unknown whether President Zelenskyy’s delegation was informed of the drone activity.

Security assessments have classified the drones as large, expensive, and of military grade—prompting concerns of a potential hybrid operation targeting the visit of Ukraine’s First Couple.

Earlier, Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin announced that his country will allocate approximately $134 million to Ukraine, with the funds directed towards non-lethal military assistance and support for the energy system.

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