NATO has strongly criticized Russia for its “reckless” actions following an incident where a drone struck a 10-story residential building in southeastern Romania, causing a fire and injuring two individuals.
The drone collided with a building in Galati, Romania, during a Russian attack on neighboring Ukraine on Friday, as reported by Romania’s defense ministry. This marks the first instance in Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine where a drone has impacted a densely populated area in Romania, resulting in injuries.
A spokesperson from NATO expressed condemnation of Russia’s recklessness and affirmed NATO’s commitment to enhancing defenses against various threats, including drones. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte was reported to be in communication with Romanian authorities regarding the incident.
In response to the attack, Romania’s defense ministry deployed two F-16 fighter jets and a military helicopter to monitor the situation. Pilots were granted authorization to intercept any drones, and residents in border areas were advised to seek shelter.
Romania, which shares a significant border with Ukraine, has encountered multiple instances of Russian drones breaching its airspace since the conflict began. The defense ministry disclosed that drone fragments have landed in Romanian territory on numerous occasions.
Romania’s laws permit the military to take down drones during peacetime if there is a threat to lives or property, although this action has not been executed yet. The country’s Foreign Minister, Oana Toiu, affirmed that diplomatic measures would be pursued in response to the breach of international law and airspace violation.
Efforts are underway to expedite the transfer of anti-drone capabilities to Romania, following the incident. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drones have entered Baltic airspace recently, leading to tensions with Russia.
During the drone strike in Galati, a fire erupted on the 10th floor of the building, with two individuals receiving medical treatment on-site. The emergency response agency reported that 70 people were evacuated from the premises.
The drone’s payload detonated entirely, causing damage to the building. The defense ministry mentioned that radar contact was lost as the drone flew at a low altitude upon entering Galati.
In a separate incident, an unmanned drone without explosives was discovered in Maramures county, with authorities securing the area for investigation. Nearby, authorities in southern Ukraine reported an attack on the Izmail port, a key strategic location.
This event follows a previous drone incident in Galati in April, emphasizing the ongoing challenges posed by drone activities in the region.
