Romania has strongly condemned what it called “irresponsible actions” by Moscow after a Russian drone allegedly breached Romanian airspace during an attack on neighboring Ukraine. The incident, which took place on Saturday evening, marks yet another violation of NATO airspace in the region.
According to Romania’s Defence Minister, Ionuț Moșteanu, the drone—identified as a Russian‐made “Geran”—entered Romania from the direction of Ukraine and was tracked for nearly 50 minutes before exiting near Chilia Veche and Pardina in Northern Dobruja. Two F‑16 fighter jets from Romania’s 86th Air Base were scrambled to monitor the incursion. Although they were authorized to open fire, they held fire to avoid potential collateral damage.
The Romanian Foreign Ministry has officially summoned the Russian ambassador, demanding explanations for the breach. In its statement, the ministry emphasized that such incursions threaten regional security and stability, particularly in the sensitive Black Sea area which already faces heightened tensions due to the war.
This is the second reported violation of NATO member airspace by Russian drones in the span of a week. Poland reported that roughly 19‑20 Russian drones entered its airspace just days earlier. In response to these incidents, NATO and EU leaders have expressed serious concern and called for increased vigilance along the alliance’s eastern flank.
Though no damage or casualties were reported in the Romanian incident, officials emphasized it is not being treated as a trivial matter but rather as part of a pattern of behavior. Romania reiterated its commitment to defending every inch of allied airspace and called for Moscow to be held accountable under international law.
