Romanian authorities have confirmed that an unmanned aerial vehicle entered their airspace during Russian attacks on Ukraine, prompting a NATO response. Meanwhile, Poland increased its air patrols and activated defense systems along its eastern border.
Drone Incursion Over Southeastern Romania
The Defence Ministry in Bucharest reported that a drone flew about 10 kilometers into Romanian territory before disappearing from radar near Chilia Veche in the Danube Delta. Officials stated that the aircraft maintained a low altitude and avoided crossing populated areas.
In response, Romania scrambled two F-16 fighter jets, with NATO Eurofighters assisting in the operation. Residents of Tulcea County received emergency alerts advising them to remain indoors until authorities confirmed the threat had passed.
The drone later returned toward Ukrainian territory, with no reported casualties or damage in Romania.
Conflicting Accounts of Duration
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed the drone remained over NATO-controlled airspace for nearly fifty minutes, describing the incident as a deliberate escalation by Moscow.
Romania’s Defence Minister, however, said the pilots were prepared to engage but refrained after radar data confirmed the drone was exiting national airspace.
Poland Scrambles Jets in Response
Polish authorities also reacted late Friday after detecting potential drone activity near the border with Ukraine. Fighter jets were deployed, Lublin airport was temporarily closed, and air defense systems were placed on high alert.
No drones were confirmed to have entered Polish airspace, but officials emphasized the measures were necessary due to repeated threats in the region.
NATO’s Eastern Flank Under Pressure
Both Romania and Poland have previously discovered fragments of Russian drones on their territory, highlighting the risks of the conflict spilling into NATO member states.
NATO confirmed it had been briefed on the Romanian incursion and reassured that civilians were not in immediate danger. The episode underscores the ongoing security challenges for countries along the alliance’s eastern border.
