Romania warns of new security challenge after Russian drone incursion

Sunday 14 September 2025 - 16:00

By: Sahili Aya

Romania warns of new security challenge after Russian drone incursion

Romania has condemned the recent intrusion of a Russian drone into its airspace during an attack on neighboring Ukraine, calling Moscow’s actions a “new challenge” for Black Sea security. The announcement comes just days after a dramatic incursion of Russian drones over Poland.

In a statement, the Romanian Ministry of Defense said, “The country firmly condemns the irresponsible actions of the Russian Federation and underlines that they represent a new challenge to regional security and stability in the Black Sea area.” The ministry also emphasized that such incidents demonstrate Russia’s disregard for international law.

Romanian authorities reported that the drone, identified as a Russian Geran model, flew over the country’s eastern region for approximately 50 minutes, from the village of Chilia Veche to the border near Pardina, before heading toward Ukraine. Romania, a NATO member, dispatched two F-16 fighter jets to monitor the situation.

“The pilots were authorized to shoot down the target, but upon evaluating the collateral risks, they decided not to engage,” the statement said. German allies assisted with two Eurofighter Typhoon jets to ensure surveillance.

This incident follows the recent intrusion of 19 Russian drones over Polish airspace, the first of its kind since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Romania has previously experienced drone fragments falling onto its territory and passed legislation in February allowing the country to shoot down drones that violate its airspace.