Romania summons Russian ambassador after drone violation of its airspace
Romania’s Foreign Affairs Ministry summoned Russia’s ambassador in Bucharest, Vladimir Lipaev, following the Russian drone incursion into the country’s airspace, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported on Sept. 14.
Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu confirmed that the ambassador was called in and, when asked if Bucharest had drawn a “red line” for Moscow and whether stricter measures could follow, she replied: “Of course, yes.”
“We are working with our European Union partners, especially on the 19th sanctions package," she said.
"You will see the reaction of several international partners who are standing in solidarity with Romania today.”
In its statement, the Ministry said the Romanian side lodged a “strong protest” against the unacceptable and irresponsible act, which constitutes a violation of Romania’s sovereignty.
“These repeated incidents escalate tensions and increase threats to regional security," the MFA added.
"The Russian side has been urged to immediately take all necessary measures to prevent further violations of Romanian airspace. Romania remains in constant contact with its allies and other EU members.”
On Sept. 13, Romania’s Defense Ministry reported that F-16 fighter jets detected a Russian drone in national airspace at 6:23 p.m. The aircraft pursued it until about 20 kilometers northwest of Chilia Veche (municipality, bordering Ukraine's Odesa Oblast), where it disappeared from radar.
Officials highlighted that the drone did not fly over populated areas and posed no direct threat to civilians.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, commenting on the incident, noted that earlier the same day Poland had deployed military action against Russian drones.
“This is a clear expansion of Russia’s war — that’s exactly how they operate," Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram.
"First small steps, and eventually massive losses.”
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