Nato and EU condemn Russia after drone hits Romanian residential block

A Russian drone struck a residential block in the Romanian town of Galați, near the Ukrainian border, causing a fire and injuring two people. The drone’s explosive payload detonated on the 10th floor of the building, prompting the evacuation of about 70 residents. Romanian authorities scrambled two F-16 fighter jets after detecting the drone, but the aircraft impacted within four minutes due to operational constraints that prevented firing into Ukrainian airspace. This incident marks the first time Romanian civilians have been harmed amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Romanian President Nicușor Dan indicated the drone was likely intercepted by Ukrainian air defenses, causing it to veer off course and enter Romanian territory. He described the event as the most serious breach of Romanian sovereignty since the start of Russia’s war against Ukraine. In response, Romania announced the expulsion of the Russian consul in Constanța and the closure of the Russian consulate there. Moscow has warned that it will respond swiftly to these diplomatic measures. Romanian officials emphasized that while Romania remains at peace, the conflict next door is having direct consequences on its population. NATO and the European Union strongly condemned Russia for the drone strike, with Ukraine reiterating that the attack underscores the ongoing threat Russia poses to European security. Romanian military officials highlighted the challenges of defending national airspace amid the conflict, as Romanian forces must avoid violating Ukrainian airspace while responding to threats. The incident has heightened tensions in the region, raising concerns about the potential for the conflict to spill further into NATO member states. This event underscores the broader risks faced by countries bordering Ukraine as the war continues, with NATO and EU allies reaffirming their support for Romania’s sovereignty and security. The Romanian government has convened its Supreme Defence Council to assess the situation and coordinate further responses, signaling the seriousness with which it views the incident and its implications for regional stability.