Russian Drone Breaches Romanian Airspace in Second NATO Incursion This Week
A Russian drone reportedly breached Romanian airspace, a NATO member, marking the second such incident this week. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned the action, labeling it a deliberate “expansion of the war.” The incident raises serious concerns about the potential for escalation and the security of NATO’s eastern flank.
The Romanian Ministry of Defence has confirmed the incursion and stated that it is investigating the incident. Initial reports suggest the drone, believed to be a Russian Orlan-10, crossed the border briefly before returning to Ukrainian territory. Romania scrambled fighter jets to monitor the situation, but the drone had already left the area.
“This is not just an isolated incident,” Zelensky stated in his nightly address. “It is a clear message that Russia is testing NATO’s resolve and attempting to provoke a wider conflict. We must respond decisively to deter further aggression.” He urged NATO allies to increase their military presence in the region and provide Ukraine with more advanced air defense systems.
NATO officials have expressed concern over the repeated airspace violations. Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg reiterated the alliance’s commitment to defending every inch of its territory. “We are monitoring the situation closely and remain in close contact with our Romanian allies,” Stoltenberg said in a statement. “Any attack on a NATO member will be met with a united and forceful response.”
The incident comes at a time of heightened tensions between Russia and the West, following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Concerns are growing that the conflict could spill over into neighboring countries, particularly those bordering Ukraine. The repeated drone incursions into Romanian airspace add to these fears and highlight the vulnerability of NATO’s eastern border.
Analysts suggest that Russia may be deliberately probing NATO’s defenses to assess its response capabilities and test its unity. The Kremlin has not yet commented on the incident, but it has previously denied any intention of attacking NATO countries.
The Romanian government is under increasing pressure to strengthen its border security and enhance its air defense capabilities. Opposition parties have called for a parliamentary inquiry into the airspace violations and demanded answers from the Ministry of Defence.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming days. NATO is likely to increase its surveillance of the region and consider additional measures to deter further Russian aggression.
- NATO is investigating the incident.
- Zelensky calls for a stronger NATO response.
- Romania is strengthening its border security.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on publicly available information and may be subject to updates.
