The aim of the article is to analyze the reasons for the attack on Copenhagen in 1801 and 1807 by the British Navy, as well as to clarify whether these attacks can be considered counter-revolutionary measures against revolutionary France, or whether they were based on other motives. The author examines the current diplomatic situation in Europe, describes the discontent of the Baltic countries with the practice of strict control of neutral shipping by Britain, and examines the role of national interests in making important military and political decisions by small and large States in the region. The article concludes that the bombing of Copenhagen was a clear demonstration of British power to those European powers who sought to change the system of international relations and challenge the British rule at the sea. In this regard, the attacks on the Danish capital were a real terror, but quite motivated. At the same time, the counter-revolutionary motive remained, because the change in the model of behavior at sea and in European diplomacy was itself revolutionary, and explains why the attacks on the Danish capital were cruel, but necessary attempts to save their “old order”.