Romania Accuses Russia of “Grave and Irresponsible Escalation”
Romania has accused Russia of a “grave and irresponsible escalation” after a Russian drone entered its airspace. The incident occurred in the southeastern city of Galati, where a drone crashed onto the roof of an apartment building, injuring two people. This event has triggered strong reactions from various European and NATO leaders.
Details of the Drone Incident
According to the Romanian Defense Ministry, the drone was part of a series of attacks by Russia on civilian and infrastructure targets in Ukraine near the border with Romania. During the night of May 28-29, one of these drones entered Romanian airspace, was tracked by radar as far as the southern part of Galati, and eventually crashed onto the roof of an apartment building, causing a fire.
Galati is located close to Romania’s borders with Ukraine and Moldova. The General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations reported that the drone hit a 10-story apartment building. Two individuals sustained light injuries, and the building was evacuated.
This is not the first time such an incident has occurred. A month ago, a Russian drone crashed in Galati, striking the outbuilding of a residential home. However, no one was injured in that case.
International Reactions
Romania’s Foreign Ministry condemned the incident, calling it a “grave and irresponsible escalation from Russia.” The ministry stated that Romania had informed its allies and NATO’s secretary-general about the circumstances and requested measures to accelerate the transfer of anti-drone capabilities to the country.
Romania, a member of both NATO and the European Union, has been one of several NATO member countries to report violations by Russian drones and jets in recent months. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Russia had “crossed yet another line” after one of its drones breached Romanian airspace.
“We stand in full solidarity with Romania and its people,” she said on X. “As we continue strengthening our security and deterrence, especially on our eastern border, we will keep increasing the pressure on Russia.”
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized the alliance’s commitment to defending “every inch” of its territory, vowing “absolute solidarity” with Romania. He warned that Russia’s reckless behavior poses a danger to all.
Germany’s Response
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz assured Romania of Berlin’s solidarity and support following the “reckless” incident. He stated on social media that Germany stands shoulder to shoulder with its NATO allies. “The incident shows once again: We need a strong NATO presence on the eastern flank,” he wrote. “We are ready to defend the alliance’s territory.”
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul echoed this sentiment, saying, “We will neither allow ourselves to be intimidated nor divided.” He added that Germany would rapidly and decisively expand European defense capabilities within NATO.
Russia’s Claims and Denials
The Russian Foreign Ministry initially dismissed the reports from Romania as unsubstantiated and lacking evidence. Spokesperson Maria Zakharova claimed, “Not a single fact, material, piece of evidence has been presented.”
Later, President Vladimir Putin suggested that the drone may have originated from Ukraine. “Who in Romania says that this is a Russian drone?” he asked reporters in Astana, Kazakhstan. “No one can say what the origin of this or that drone is until an examination has been carried out.”
Putin also mentioned that there had been several drone alerts and even impacts in the Baltic region in the past month, drawing parallels to the current situation.
France and Austria Take Action
France and Austria both summoned Russian ambassadors over the incident. A statement from the French foreign ministry described the event as a “new irresponsible escalation” that violates international law. Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger expressed clear protest against Russia’s actions, stating, “Europe will not be intimidated.”
Additional Incidents
In a separate incident, a drone without an explosive charge was found near Baia Mare in northwestern Romania. Authorities secured the area, and investigations into the drone’s origin are ongoing. The drone had a wingspan of about 3 meters (9.8 feet).
Meanwhile, in Ukraine’s Odesa region, drones struck the Izmail port area overnight. One drone got stuck in power lines, temporarily cutting off electricity to five villages. Izmail, located near the Romanian border, is a strategic location frequently targeted by Russia.
