Romania scrambled F-16 fighter jets to destroy a marine drone spotted near the Neptun Deep gas project in the Black Sea. Defence Minister Radu Miruta said the move was aimed at protecting hundreds of workers and critical energy infrastructure. Ukraine said the drone did not belong to its forces, while Romanian President Nicusor Dan blamed Russia and warned of growing threats in the Black Sea.

 Romanian F-16s destroy drone near major gas project

Romania has accused Russia of being responsible for a drone strike that injured a mother and child in the city of Galati near the Ukrainian border. Romanian officials say more than 30 drone incursions have been recorded this year, raising concerns about security along NATO's eastern flank. While Bucharest condemned the incident as a violation of international law, Russia's envoy to the United Nations called for an objective and depoliticised assessment of the situation. The episode has renewed fears about the conflict spilling beyond Ukraine's borders.


Russia-Ukraine War: Russian Drone Strike Injures Mother And Child At Galati In Romania

Romania has accused Russia of being responsible for a drone strike that injured a mother and child in the city of Galati near the Ukrainian border. Romanian officials say more than 30 drone incursions have been recorded this year, raising concerns about security along NATO's eastern flank. While Bucharest condemned the incident as a violation of international law, Russia's envoy to the United Nations called for an objective and depoliticised assessment of the situation. The episode has renewed fears about the conflict spilling beyond Ukraine's borders.

Drone Blast in Romania Sparks Tensions as Bucharest Blames Russia, Moscow Rejects Claims

A Russian drone has struck a 10-story apartment building in the Romanian city of Galați, causing an explosion that injured two residents and forced the evacuation of 70 people. This marks the first time a drone strike has caused injuries within Romanian territory, significantly escalating regional security fears along NATO’s eastern flank. 

The attack, which damaged multiple vehicles and the building's infrastructure, occurred simultaneously with heavy strikes on the nearby Ukrainian port of Izmail.

Russian Drone Swarm Breaches NATO Airspace: Apartment Building Hit in Romania

Romania: Drone Was Part Of A Swarm Of 43 Russian Drones

Romania Claims Russia Used Geran-2 Drone, Two Injured

Russia Vs NATO: Russian Drone Launched Against Ukraine, Crashes in Romania 

Romania to Expel Russian Consul General Following Russian Drone Strike Hit Residential Building

Romania has expelled a Russian diplomat and announced the closure of Russia’s consulate in Constanța after a Russian drone crashed into a residential apartment block near the Ukrainian border, injuring two civilians. The incident marked the first time during Russia’s war in Ukraine that a densely populated area inside a NATO member state was directly hit, causing injuries and sharply escalating tensions along the alliance’s eastern flank. Romanian President Nicușor Dan announced the measures on Friday following a meeting of the Supreme Council of National Defence (CSAT).&nbsp;Romanian authorities said the drone strike took place overnight in the southeastern city of Galați after radar tracked a Russian drone entering Romanian airspace during a wider aerial assault on Ukraine involving 43 drones.<h2>Romania Blames Russia for ‘Serious Incident’</h2>In a statement posted on X, Dan directly blamed Moscow for the attack. “The entire responsibility for the serious incident in which two Romanian citizens were injured lies with Russia, a country that has been waging a war of aggression against Ukraine for more than four years,” he said.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rbi-says-west-asia-conflict-poses-short-term-risks-to-india-s-growth-and-inflation-fy27-gdp-growth-projected-at-6-9-1780053557615">RBI says West Asia conflict poses short-term risks to India’s growth and inflation, FY27 GDP growth projected at 6.9%</a>&nbsp;Dan confirmed that the Russian Consul General in Constanța had been declared “persona non grata” and that the Russian consulate in the city would be closed. He also said Romanian authorities had identified the drone as a Russian-made Geran-2 launched from Russian territory. “We know its trajectory and the path it took through Ukraine; we know how it entered Romania,” he wrote. Photos released from the scene showed extensive fire damage and charred brickwork on the roof of a 10-storey apartment building. Romanian officials said the drone exploded on impact, setting fire to a top-floor flat. A woman and a child suffered minor injuries.<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Întreaga responsabilitate pentru incidentul grav în care doi cetățeni români au fost răniți revine Rusiei, o țară care duce un război de agresiune de mai bine de patru ani împotriva Ucrainei. Raportat la această situație, Consulul General al Federației Ruse la Constanța a fost… <a href="https://t.co/DOGaQYrGY5">pic.twitter.com/DOGaQYrGY5</a>&mdash; Nicușor Dan (@NicusorDanRO) <a href="https://x.com/NicusorDanRO/status/2060335381480964408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>NATO Condemns ‘Reckless Behaviour’</h2>NATO condemned the incident and reaffirmed its commitment to collective defence. The alliance accused Moscow of “reckless behaviour” and pledged to “defend every inch of Allied territory”. Romania, which shares a 650-kilometre border with Ukraine, said Russian drones have violated its airspace 28 times since Moscow intensified attacks on Ukrainian Danube port infrastructure following the full-scale invasion in 2022.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/are-couples-always-happier-new-study-finds-single-people-are-happier-than-those-in-unhappy-relationships-1780050331914">Are couples always happier? New study finds bad relationships may be emotionally worse than being single</a><h2>Romania Accelerates Defence Measures</h2>President Dan said Romania was moving to strengthen anti-drone defence systems through NATO and European programmes. He revealed that contracts under the SAFE defence initiative were currently being signed and that Romania had also launched joint drone production partnerships with Ukraine, alongside separate cooperation mechanisms involving the United States and the United Kingdom. “We also have a joint mechanism with the United States and the United Kingdom to accelerate the production and testing of drones and, obviously, anti-drone capabilities. And, until these pieces of equipment are delivered, we have both bilateral agreements and ones within NATO with partners for equipment to be present in Romania", he wrote.&nbsp;“In the discussion I had with the NATO Secretary General, I insisted on urgency,” Dan said, adding that allied defence equipment was expected to arrive in Romania “as quickly as possible”.

Dan confirmed that the Russian Consul General in Constanța had been declared “persona non grata” and that the Russian consulate in the city would be closed. 

Romania has expelled a Russian diplomat and announced the closure of Russia’s consulate in Constanța after a Russian drone crashed into a residential apartment block near the Ukrainian border, injuring two civilians. The incident marked the first time during Russia’s war in Ukraine that a densely populated area inside a NATO member state was directly hit, causing injuries and sharply escalating tensions along the alliance’s eastern flank. Romanian President Nicușor Dan announced the measures on Friday following a meeting of the Supreme Council of National Defence (CSAT). Romanian authorities said the drone strike took place overnight in the southeastern city of Galați after radar tracked a Russian drone entering Romanian airspace during a wider aerial assault on Ukraine involving 43 drones. Romania Blames Russia for ‘Serious Incident’ In a statement posted on X, Dan directly blamed Moscow for the attack. “The entire responsibility for the serious incident in which two Romanian citizens were injured lies with Russia, a country that has been waging a war of aggression against Ukraine for more than four years,” he said. ALSO READ: RBI says West Asia conflict poses short-term risks to India’s growth and inflation, FY27 GDP growth projected at 6.9% Dan confirmed that the Russian Consul General in Constanța had been declared “persona non grata” and that the Russian consulate in the city would be closed. He also said Romanian authorities had identified the drone as a Russian-made Geran-2 launched from Russian territory. “We know its trajectory and the path it took through Ukraine; we know how it entered Romania,” he wrote. Photos released from the scene showed extensive fire damage and charred brickwork on the roof of a 10-storey apartment building. Romanian officials said the drone exploded on impact, setting fire to a top-floor flat. A woman and a child suffered minor injuries.

Dan confirmed that the Russian Consul General in Constanța had been declared “persona non grata” and that the Russian consulate in the city would be closed.&nbsp;

Romania shuts Russian consulate in Constanța, expels consul after Russian drone strike injures civilians

Following a Russian drone incident in Romania, a NATO member state, that resulted in fire in a residential building, injuring two people, European leaders have condemned Moscow’s “reckless behaviour.” This comes after Bucharest said that a Russian drone hit an apartment building in the city of Galati on the night of May 28-29, as Russia resumed its offensive against Ukraine.&nbsp;<h2>Romania summons Russian ambassador</h2>In response to the incident, Romania summoned Russian ambassador, calling it an “extremely serious incident.”“We will officially communicate the consequences that this lack of responsibility on the part of the Russian Federation will have for the diplomatic relations between our countries, as well as the next steps at the European level regarding sanctions packages,” Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Toiu wrote on X.Meanwhile, President Nicusor Dan convened a national defence council meeting to discuss “the most serious incident to have affected our national territory” since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.<h2>European leaders condemn the incident</h2>Following the incident, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said, “Russia’s war of aggression has crossed yet another line. A Russian drone incursion struck a densely populated area in Romania, injuring civilians. On EU territory.”She added, “We stand in full solidarity with Romania and its people. As we continue strengthening our security and deterrence, especially on our Eastern border, we will keep increasing the pressure on Russia. We are preparing a 21st package of sanctions.”NATO chief Mark Rutte condemned the incident, saying, “Russia’s reckless behaviour is a danger to us all. They continue to target civilians and civilian infrastructure across Ukraine. And last night showed yet again that the implications of their illegal war of aggression don’t stop at the border.”He added, “I affirmed that NATO stands ready to defend every inch of Allied territory. We will continue to enhance our readiness to deter and defend against any threat, including from drones.”France’s foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot slammed Russia of carrying out an “irresponsible act”. While Moldova President Maia Sandu strongly condemned the “grave” incident, calling Russia “a danger to all”. The US ambassador to NATO also denounced “reckless incursion” by Russia into Romanian territory, adding that “We will defend every inch of NATO territory.” Germany and Ukraine also condemned the drone crash.<h2>Did not have time to shoot down drone</h2>Meanwhile, the country’s defence ministry said that Romanian forces did not have enough time to shoot down the drone that crashed into an apartment building. It said that there was “no realistic opportunities to engage it safely,” adding that they only had an extremely short window of time of four minutes.Romanian President Dan Nicusor said the decision not to engage was made “because the conditions necessary to destroy it without significantly endangering the safety of the civilian population were not present.”

A Russian drone struck a residential building in Romania, injuring two people. NATO and EU leaders condemned Moscow, while Bucharest summoned Russia’s ambassador.

Following a Russian drone incident in Romania, a NATO member state, that resulted in fire in a residential building, injuring two people, European leaders have condemned Moscow’s “reckless behaviour.” This comes after Bucharest said that a Russian drone hit an apartment building in the city of Galati on the night of May 28-29, as Russia resumed its offensive against Ukraine. Romania summons Russian ambassador In response to the incident, Romania summoned Russian ambassador, calling it an “extremely serious incident.” “We will officially communicate the consequences that this lack of responsibility on the part of the Russian Federation will have for the diplomatic relations between our countries, as well as the next steps at the European level regarding sanctions packages,” Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Toiu wrote on X. Meanwhile, President Nicusor Dan convened a national defence council meeting to discuss “the most serious incident to have affected our national territory” since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. European leaders condemn the incident Following the incident, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said, “Russia’s war of aggression has crossed yet another line. A Russian drone incursion struck a densely populated area in Romania, injuring civilians. On EU territory.” She added, “We stand in full solidarity with Romania and its people. As we continue strengthening our security and deterrence, especially on our Eastern border, we will keep increasing the pressure on Russia. We are preparing a 21st package of sanctions.” NATO chief Mark Rutte condemned the incident, saying, “Russia’s reckless behaviour is a danger to us all. They continue to target civilians and civilian infrastructure across Ukraine. And last night showed yet again that the implications of their illegal war of aggression don’t stop at the border.” He added, “I affirmed that NATO stands ready to defend every inch of Allied territory. We will continue to enhance our readiness to deter and defend against any threat, including from drones.” France’s foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot slammed Russia of carrying out an “irresponsible act”. While Moldova President Maia Sandu strongly condemned the “grave” incident, calling Russia “a danger to all”. The US ambassador to NATO also denounced “reckless incursion” by Russia into Romanian territory, adding that “We will defend every inch of NATO territory.” Germany and Ukraine also condemned the drone crash. Did not have time to shoot down drone Meanwhile, the country’s defence ministry said that Romanian forces did not have enough time to shoot down the drone that crashed into an apartment building. It said that there was “no realistic opportunities to engage it safely,” adding that they only had an extremely short window of time of four minutes. Romanian President Dan Nicusor said the decision not to engage was made “because the conditions necessary to destroy it without significantly endangering the safety of the civilian population were not present.”

A Russian drone struck a residential building in Romania, injuring two people. NATO and EU leaders condemned Moscow, while Bucharest summoned Russia’s ambassador.

‘Danger to us all’: NATO, EU leaders slam Russia’s ‘reckless behaviour’ after drone incident in member state Romania

A Russian drone has struck a 10-story apartment building in the Romanian city of Galați, causing an explosion that injured two residents and forced the evacuation of 70 people. This marks the first time a drone strike has caused injuries within Romanian territory, significantly escalating regional security fears along NATO’s eastern flank. 

Romania: At Least 2 Injured in Drone Strike; Drones Target Izmail Port in Odesa

Romania’s pro-EU government has collapsed following a no-confidence vote, triggering political uncertainty in the country. President Nicușor Dan has reaffirmed Romania’s commitment to a pro-Western direction, signalling continuity in foreign policy despite the domestic turmoil. The development could lead to fresh political negotiations or elections as parties scramble to form a new government.


Romania's Pro-EU Government Collapses After a No-Confidence Vote

A powerful protest in Bucharest has brought attention to the growing femicide crisis, as rows of red shoes were placed on the steps of the Romanian Athenaeum to honour women killed by domestic violence. According to recent estimates, at least one woman is being killed every week in Romania due to domestic violence in 2026. Activists say the protest is not just about remembrance, but also a call for urgent action, stronger laws, and better protection for victims.


Red Shoes Protest In Romania Highlights Femicide Crisis | One Woman Killed Every Week In 2026 

Massive protests erupted in Bucharest as citizens voice opposition to austerity measures. The demonstrations come amid concerns over Romania’s budget deficit, which has risen above 9%, exceeding the year-end target of 8.4%. Economists warn of growing public discontent as government spending cuts take effect. Stay tuned for updates on protests and economic developments.

Romania’s Budget Deficit Sparks Massive Bucharest Protests

Romania’s capital Bucharest saw a massive wave of protests where thousands of workers from across sectors taking to the streets... Demanding higher wages, lower taxes, and relief from rising prices.
The demonstrations come as Romania’s government pushes through strict austerity measures to curb one of the European union’s largest budget deficits.
But as the government tightens its belt... Citizens say they’re the ones feeling the pinch.

Romanian Workers Demand Pay Raises, Tax Cuts

In a major strategic shift, the United States has begun withdrawing a combat brigade from Romania, a move that has stirred unease among European allies. The decision, part of a broader realignment under the Trump administration, raises questions about NATO’s eastern flank security and Washington’s long-term commitment to Europe amid rising tensions with Russia.
Analysts warn the redeployment could weaken deterrence along NATO’s frontier: even as the U.S. insists the move is part of a “global posture review” to better position its forces for future threats.

Strategic Shift By Trump Administration Rattles European Allies

Severe floods have struck Romania, prompting authorities to issue a red alert across affected regions. Residents are urged to stay safe as rivers overflow and heavy rains continue.

Romania Floods: severe floods lash Romania, red alert issued

Romania on Sunday (Sep 14) summoned the Russian ambassador to Bucharest after the entry of a Russian drone into its airspace during an attack on neighbouring Ukraine. Romania strongly condemned the incident, which marked the second where Russian drones had violated a NATO country’s airspace after a similar drone incursion in Polish airspace. The Russian drone incursion also sparked criticism from the European Union, which called Moscow’s actions a “reckless” threat to security. Foreign Minister Oana Toiu told private TV channel Digi 24 that Russian Ambassador Vladimir Lipaev would be summoned to the ministry on Sunday evening to “clearly communicate Romania’s protest” over the drone intrusion.According to the Romanian defence ministry, two F-16s were scrambled late Saturday as Russia launched fresh attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. The aircraft picked up a drone crossing into Romanian airspace before it disappeared from radar near the border village of Chilia Veche.Earlier on Wednesday (Sep 10), Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that the NATO member invoked Article 4 of the Western defence alliance for urgent talks after Russian drones violated its airspace.<h2>‘Irresponsible actions’</h2>In a statement, Romania’s defence ministry said that it “strongly condemns the irresponsible actions of the Russian Federation and emphasizes that they represent a new challenge to regional security and stability in the Black Sea area.” It added, “such incidents demonstrate the Russian Federation's lack of respect for international law.”<h2>‘Blatant violation of EU sovereignty’</h2>The European Union also condemned Russian actions, calling it a “reckless” threat to security following the drone intrusion on Saturday (Sep 13).In a statement on X, President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen said, “Russia’s incursion into Romanian airspace is once again a blatant violation of EU sovereignty and a serious threat to regional security.” She added, “We are working closely with Romania and all Member States to protect the EU territory.”Foreign policy chief of the EU, Kaja Kallas, in a statement, said, “The violation of Romanian airspace by Russian drones is yet another unacceptable breach of an EU member state’s sovereignty.”“This continued reckless escalation threatens regional security. We stand in solidarity with Romania. I am in close contact with the Romanian government,” Kallas wrote on X.

The European Union also condemned Russian actions, calling it a “reckless” threat to security following the drone intrusion on Saturday (Sep 13).

Romania on Sunday (Sep 14) summoned the Russian ambassador to Bucharest after the entry of a Russian drone into its airspace during an attack on neighbouring Ukraine. Romania strongly condemned the incident, which marked the second where Russian drones had violated a NATO country’s airspace after a similar drone incursion in Polish airspace. The Russian drone incursion also sparked criticism from the European Union, which called Moscow’s actions a “reckless” threat to security. Foreign Minister Oana Toiu told private TV channel Digi 24 that Russian Ambassador Vladimir Lipaev would be summoned to the ministry on Sunday evening to “clearly communicate Romania’s protest” over the drone intrusion. According to the Romanian defence ministry, two F-16s were scrambled late Saturday as Russia launched fresh attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. The aircraft picked up a drone crossing into Romanian airspace before it disappeared from radar near the border village of Chilia Veche. Earlier on Wednesday (Sep 10), Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that the NATO member invoked Article 4 of the Western defence alliance for urgent talks after Russian drones violated its airspace. ‘Irresponsible actions’ In a statement, Romania’s defence ministry said that it “strongly condemns the irresponsible actions of the Russian Federation and emphasizes that they represent a new challenge to regional security and stability in the Black Sea area.” It added, “such incidents demonstrate the Russian Federation's lack of respect for international law.” ‘Blatant violation of EU sovereignty’ The European Union also condemned Russian actions, calling it a “reckless” threat to security following the drone intrusion on Saturday (Sep 13). In a statement on X, President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen said, “Russia’s incursion into Romanian airspace is once again a blatant violation of EU sovereignty and a serious threat to regional security.” She added, “We are working closely with Romania and all Member States to protect the EU territory.” Foreign policy chief of the EU, Kaja Kallas, in a statement, said, “The violation of Romanian airspace by Russian drones is yet another unacceptable breach of an EU member state’s sovereignty.” “This continued reckless escalation threatens regional security. We stand in solidarity with Romania. I am in close contact with the Romanian government,” Kallas wrote on X.

The European Union also condemned Russian actions, calling it a “reckless” threat to security following the drone intrusion on Saturday (Sep 13).

‘To clearly communicate Romania’s protest’: Bucharest summons Russian ambassador over drone intrusion

Romania scrambled two F-16 fighter jets late on Saturday to monitor the situation after the strikes, the ministry said in statement. The jets “detected a drone in national airspace” and tracked it until “it disappeared from the radar” near the Romanian village of Chilia Veche, it added.


Romania says it detected a drone, scrambled two F-16 to track it

Romania on Saturday (Sep 13) said that one of its fighter jets detected a drone entering its airspace during Russian strikes on Ukraine — the second NATO country this week to report such an incident after Poland. According to the Romanian defence ministry, two F-16s were scrambled late Saturday as Russia launched fresh attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. The aircraft picked up a drone crossing into Romanian airspace before it disappeared from radar near the border village of Chilia Veche. The incident comes days after Poland said Russian drones violated its airspace and that it had shot down several, calling the incursions "provocations". It marked the first known instance of a NATO country firing on drones linked to the war.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-shows-off-long-neptune-a-domestic-missile-that-can-hit-targets-1-000-km-inside-russia-here-s-how-it-s-an-upgrade-on-r-360-neptune-1756191828542">Ukraine shows off 'Long Neptune': A domestic missile that can hit targets 1,000 km inside Russia. Here's how it's an 'upgrade' on R-360 Neptune</a><h2>Zelensky slams Russia's obvious expansion of war</h2>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Russian drone over Romania penetrated about 10 kilometres into NATO territory and remained in the alliance's airspace for nearly 50 minutes. He called the moves an "obvious expansion of the war by Russia"."Today, Romania scrambled combat aircraft because of a Russian drone in its airspace. According to current data, the drone penetrated about 10 kilometres into Romanian territory and operated in NATO airspace for around 50 minutes. Also today, Poland responded militarily to the threat of Russian attack drones.""In fact, Russian drones have been in different regions of Ukraine all day, including the northern regions, practically along the border with Belarus. According to preliminary information, Belarusian airspace was also used for entry into Ukraine's airspace toward Volyn," he added.Zelensky said that the "Russian military knows exactly where its drones are headed and how long they can operate in the air. Their routes are always calculated., adding that "this cannot be a coincidence, a mistake, or the initiative of some lower-level commanders. It is an obvious expansion of the war by Russia – and this is exactly how they act. Small steps at first, and eventually big losses."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-energy-is-his-weapon-zelensky-sides-with-trump-says-india-must-face-50-tariffs-for-russian-oil-trade-1757313748003">'Energy is his weapon': Zelensky sides with Trump, says 'right idea' for India to face 50% tariffs for Russian oil trade</a><h2>What did the drone do?</h2>France 24, citing officials, reported that the drone was detected moving into Romanian airspace before it "disappeared from radar" near the border village. The drone did not pass over residential areas and posed no immediate danger to civilians, added officials. Teams, meanwhile, remain on standby to search for possible debris.Romania has repeatedly reported drone fragments landing on its territory since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, particularly near ports along the border.<h2>NATO's 'Eastern Sentry'</h2>Just a day earlier, NATO unveiled new plans to reinforce air defence on its eastern flank. Romania has also passed legislation this year allowing its military to shoot down drones that cross its borders.The new NATO initiative, dubbed "Eastern Sentry," will bring in support from Denmark, France, Germany and the United Kingdom. The mission will deploy F-16s, Rafale and Eurofighter jets, a Danish anti-air warfare frigate, and enhanced intelligence-sharing across the region.NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called the incursions "dangerous and unacceptable," adding: "Eastern Sentry will add flexibility and strength to our posture and make clear that, as a defensive alliance, we are always ready to defend." &nbsp;

Romania reported that a fighter jet detected a drone entering its airspace during Russian strikes on Ukraine, making it the second NATO country this week to report such an incident after Poland.

Romania on Saturday (Sep 13) said that one of its fighter jets detected a drone entering its airspace during Russian strikes on Ukraine — the second NATO country this week to report such an incident after Poland. According to the Romanian defence ministry, two F-16s were scrambled late Saturday as Russia launched fresh attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. The aircraft picked up a drone crossing into Romanian airspace before it disappeared from radar near the border village of Chilia Veche. The incident comes days after Poland said Russian drones violated its airspace and that it had shot down several, calling the incursions "provocations". It marked the first known instance of a NATO country firing on drones linked to the war. Also read | Ukraine shows off 'Long Neptune': A domestic missile that can hit targets 1,000 km inside Russia. Here's how it's an 'upgrade' on R-360 Neptune Zelensky slams Russia's obvious expansion of war Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Russian drone over Romania penetrated about 10 kilometres into NATO territory and remained in the alliance's airspace for nearly 50 minutes. He called the moves an "obvious expansion of the war by Russia". "Today, Romania scrambled combat aircraft because of a Russian drone in its airspace. According to current data, the drone penetrated about 10 kilometres into Romanian territory and operated in NATO airspace for around 50 minutes. Also today, Poland responded militarily to the threat of Russian attack drones." "In fact, Russian drones have been in different regions of Ukraine all day, including the northern regions, practically along the border with Belarus. According to preliminary information, Belarusian airspace was also used for entry into Ukraine's airspace toward Volyn," he added. Zelensky said that the "Russian military knows exactly where its drones are headed and how long they can operate in the air. Their routes are always calculated., adding that "this cannot be a coincidence, a mistake, or the initiative of some lower-level commanders. It is an obvious expansion of the war by Russia – and this is exactly how they act. Small steps at first, and eventually big losses." Also read | 'Energy is his weapon': Zelensky sides with Trump, says 'right idea' for India to face 50% tariffs for Russian oil trade What did the drone do? France 24, citing officials, reported that the drone was detected moving into Romanian airspace before it "disappeared from radar" near the border village. The drone did not pass over residential areas and posed no immediate danger to civilians, added officials. Teams, meanwhile, remain on standby to search for possible debris. Romania has repeatedly reported drone fragments landing on its territory since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, particularly near ports along the border. NATO's 'Eastern Sentry' Just a day earlier, NATO unveiled new plans to reinforce air defence on its eastern flank. Romania has also passed legislation this year allowing its military to shoot down drones that cross its borders. The new NATO initiative, dubbed "Eastern Sentry," will bring in support from Denmark, France, Germany and the United Kingdom. The mission will deploy F-16s, Rafale and Eurofighter jets, a Danish anti-air warfare frigate, and enhanced intelligence-sharing across the region. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called the incursions "dangerous and unacceptable," adding: "Eastern Sentry will add flexibility and strength to our posture and make clear that, as a defensive alliance, we are always ready to defend."

Romania reported that a fighter jet detected a drone entering its airspace during Russian strikes on Ukraine, making it the second NATO country this week to report such an incident after Poland.

Zelenksy slams Russia's 'obvious expansion of war' as Russian drone enters Romania, after Poland, NATO on high alert

Severe storms hit Romania on Thursday (Jul 17), wreaking havoc and causing widespread damage across parts of the country. According to the Department for Emergency Situations (DSU), the severe weather conditions have resulted in damage to 60 localities across 14 counties and the capital, Bucharest. The National Meteorological Administration of the country issued Code Red and Code Orange alerts in several areas.&nbsp;People took to social media as they posted videos, sharing the severity of the storm. Several clips went viral as social media users expressed shock over videos showing powerful winds and heavy downpours, which resulted in widespread damage.&nbsp;The storm uprooted trees and resulted in damage to the buildings. Multiple areas also witnessed flooding due to heavy rainfall. According to authorities, a woman in Otopeni lost her life when the roof of another building collapsed on her. Two people were also injured after being struck by falling branches as several trees fell in Bucharest.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This evening: A powerful storm swept through Bucharest, Romania on July 17, 2025, triggering widespread damge. <a href="https://t.co/6cuCLOq61D">pic.twitter.com/6cuCLOq61D</a>&mdash; Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) <a href="https://twitter.com/WeatherMonitors/status/1945922436173857172?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">More INSANE video of yesterday’s storm in Bucharest and the surrounding Ilfov region, including Otopeni! Violent winds reaching 90–120 km/h, massive hail, and a sudden temperature plunge swept through the area for about 30 minutes, toppling trees and damaging buildings. <a href="https://t.co/QQyw7JTUtr">pic.twitter.com/QQyw7JTUtr</a>&mdash; Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) <a href="https://twitter.com/volcaholic1/status/1946132078094938470?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;An RO-Alert red code warning was sent to Bucharest residents for severe storms, medium-sized hail, and heavy rainfall, as people were urged to take shelter. According to the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (IGSU), the Orange Code warning was issued in Dâmboviţa, Giurgiu and Ilfov counties. Seven localities in Ilfov and Giurgiu counties were affected. A Red Code warning was issued for Giurgiu, Ilfov counties and Bucharest, in the Capital, where efforts are underway to clear damage from the storm.&nbsp;According to a statement released by the DSU, significant damage was reported in the counties of Argeș, Bacău, Brașov, Buzău, Constanța, Dâmbovița, Galați, Giurgiu, Ialomița, Ilfov, Mureș, Prahova, Teleorman, Vrancea, and in Bucharest.&nbsp;The severe weather conditions also disrupted road and air traffic. The traffic on the A1 motorway in Giurgiu county was temporarily halted due to a fallen road sign and scattered branches. Meanwhile, about 15 incoming flights were forced to circle before landing at Bucharest’s Henri Coandă International Airport, resulting in significant delays

People took to social media as they posted videos, sharing the severity of the storm. Several clips went viral as social media users expressed shock over videos showing powerful winds and heavy downpours, which resulted in widespread damage.

Severe storms hit Romania on Thursday (Jul 17), wreaking havoc and causing widespread damage across parts of the country. According to the Department for Emergency Situations (DSU), the severe weather conditions have resulted in damage to 60 localities across 14 counties and the capital, Bucharest. The National Meteorological Administration of the country issued Code Red and Code Orange alerts in several areas. People took to social media as they posted videos, sharing the severity of the storm. Several clips went viral as social media users expressed shock over videos showing powerful winds and heavy downpours, which resulted in widespread damage. The storm uprooted trees and resulted in damage to the buildings. Multiple areas also witnessed flooding due to heavy rainfall. According to authorities, a woman in Otopeni lost her life when the roof of another building collapsed on her. Two people were also injured after being struck by falling branches as several trees fell in Bucharest.

People took to social media as they posted videos, sharing the severity of the storm. Several clips went viral as social media users expressed shock over videos showing powerful winds and heavy downpours, which resulted in widespread damage.

WATCH | Powerful storm hits Romania, resulting in widespread damage

In Romania, far-right leader George Simion is set to secure a decisive win in the first round of the country's presidential election.

Romania election: George Simion hits out at opponents, promises reconstruction of Romania

In Romania, far-right leader George Simeon is set to secure a decisive win in the first round of the country's presidential election.

Romania election: Simon to face pro-EU candidate in run-off

Romania election: George Simon outpaces others in first round of election redo

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