Starmer condemns Russian drone crash in Romania as ‘serious violation of Nato airspace’

A Russian drone crashed into an apartment building in the eastern Romanian city of Galati, near the border with Ukraine, injuring two people and causing a fire. The incident occurred amid ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and marks a significant breach of NATO airspace. British Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer condemned the strike as a “serious violation of NATO airspace” and criticized Russia’s disregard for civilian life and international law. Romanian authorities scrambled two F-16 fighter jets to intercept the drone, but they were unable to engage it without risking civilian casualties. Romania’s President Nicusor Dan described the event as a “grave and irresponsible escalation” and called for a firm, coordinated response from NATO allies. The Romanian government has requested additional anti-drone defenses from the alliance to bolster its security. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized that the attack underscored the wider implications of Russia’s aggression beyond Ukraine’s borders and reaffirmed NATO’s commitment to defend all allied territory. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from European and NATO officials. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called the drone strike “extremely dangerous and reckless” and expressed solidarity with Romania. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that Russia had “crossed yet another line” and announced preparations for further sanctions against Moscow. The event highlights the escalating risks of the conflict spilling over into NATO countries and underscores the alliance’s urgent need to enhance its eastern defenses amid ongoing hostilities.