Russia Condemns Russian Drone Breach, Calls for Tougher Sanctions and Collective Defence Image Credit: Financial Times
Russian Drone Incursion: Romania Issues Strong Warning
(The Post News) – Romania has strongly condemned the Russian Drone Incursion that violated its airspace on Saturday, calling Moscow’s actions a serious threat to regional stability. This incident marks a new phase of escalation in the ongoing war in Ukraine and highlights the growing risk to NATO’s eastern flank.
NATO Response to Russian Drone Incursion
According to the Romanian Defence Ministry, two F-16 fighter jets were scrambled after a Geran drone was detected in Romanian airspace. The Russian Drone Incursion lasted nearly 50 minutes, during which the drone orbited near Chilia Veche and left near Pardina heading back towards Ukraine. Romania’s jets were supported by German allies with Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft, ensuring NATO surveillance and readiness.
The ministry’s statement called Moscow’s behaviour “irresponsible actions” and emphasized that they represent “a new challenge to regional security and stability in the Black Sea area.” This firm language reflects NATO’s growing concern over Russian drone activity near allied borders.
International Condemnation of Russian Drone Incursion
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas denounced the Russian Drone Incursion as an “unacceptable breach of EU sovereignty” and a “reckless escalation.” She reaffirmed the EU’s solidarity with Romania and said she remains in close contact with Bucharest to monitor the situation.
Romania’s foreign minister Oana Toiu announced plans to raise the issue at the UN General Assembly, calling for strict international adherence to sanctions and increased pressure on Moscow. This diplomatic move signals that Romania is prepared to escalate the matter to the global stage.
Poland and NATO Allies on High Alert
Poland, another NATO member, also reported multiple drone breaches last week. Polish fighter jets scrambled in response to Russian drone strikes near its border with Ukraine. Nearly 20 Russian drones entered Polish airspace overnight earlier in the week, prompting Warsaw to demand that Moscow avoid further provocations.
France, Germany, and Sweden have pledged additional support to defend Polish and Romanian airspace, demonstrating NATO’s collective defence commitment. This Russian Drone Incursion therefore strengthens the alliance’s resolve to respond to future threats with coordinated action.
Ukraine Calls for Stronger Sanctions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Russia’s increased drone operations are a deliberate attempt to expand the war. He urged Western allies to impose tougher sanctions and enhance defence cooperation. “Do not wait for dozens of Shaheds and ballistic missiles before finally making decisions,” he warned, referring to the Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia uses.
Legal Authority to Respond to Drone Incursions
Romania has already taken legal steps to respond decisively to such violations. In February, the Romanian parliament passed a law allowing the country to shoot down drones breaching its airspace. While the drone that entered on Saturday did not fly over populated areas or pose an immediate danger, the government insists that future threats will be handled with utmost seriousness.
Strategic Importance of Black Sea Security
This latest Russian Drone Incursion highlights the critical importance of Black Sea security. The region is a key transport and energy hub, and its stability is vital for European security. NATO has been increasing its presence in the area to deter potential threats and reassure member states like Romania and Bulgaria.
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