A Russian drone launched against Ukraine crashed into an apartment building in Galati, eastern Romania, a NATO member, leaving two people injured. The incident has sparked outrage and a strong response from Romanian authorities and EU leaders.
Romania's Response
Romania’s President Nicușor Dan convened an emergency meeting of the national security council for this morning to discuss the response, stating he will “order proportionate measures.” Separately, Romania summoned the Russian ambassador in protest.
In a furious statement on social media, Dan said: “What happened today in Galați is the direct consequence of Russia’s war of aggression unleashed against Ukraine, the irresponsible and indiscriminate manner in which Moscow operates these weapon systems in the immediate vicinity of NATO borders, as well as the systematic disregard for international law. There is no ambiguity regarding the perpetrator or the cause of this aggression.” He added: “Romania is a NATO member state and will not accept, in any way, the war of aggression waged by Russia against Ukraine to be transferred on to its citizens.”
EU Condemnation
The incident drew immediate and widespread condemnation from top EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. “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 that the EU “will keep increasing the pressure on Russia,” and is “preparing a 21st package of sanctions.”
Other News
The overnight attack will dominate headlines today. In other news, Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar visits Brussels for crunch talks with the European Commission, and Europe experiences a May heatwave affecting large parts of the continent.
