Romania Summons Russian Ambassador After Drone Breaches Airspace

Romania summoned Russia’s ambassador to Bucharest on Sunday, September 14, after a Russian drone entered its airspace during strikes on neighboring Ukraine. The incident marked the second time in recent days that Russian drones have crossed into NATO territory, following a similar violation in Poland, and has drawn sharp condemnation from both Romania and the European Union.

Romania’s Protest to Moscow

Foreign Minister Oana Toiu confirmed to Romanian broadcaster Digi 24 that Ambassador Vladimir Lipaev would be called to the foreign ministry on Sunday evening, where officials would “clearly communicate Romania’s protest” against Moscow’s actions.

According to the defence ministry, the breach occurred late Saturday as Russia launched new waves of drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. Two F-16 fighter jets were dispatched, detecting the drone as it crossed into Romanian airspace before radar contact was lost near the border village of Chilia Veche.

Wider NATO Concerns

The intrusion comes only days after Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that Poland had triggered Article 4 of NATO, which allows urgent consultations when a member’s security is threatened, after Russian drones briefly entered Polish airspace on September 10.

Romania’s defence ministry issued a firm statement, saying it “strongly condemns the irresponsible actions of the Russian Federation,” describing them as a direct challenge to regional stability in the Black Sea area. The statement also stressed that the incident “demonstrates Russia’s disregard for international law.”

EU Labels Incursion a ‘Blatant Violation’

The European Union joined in denouncing Moscow’s actions. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the intrusion “a blatant violation of EU sovereignty and a serious threat to regional security,” adding that Brussels was coordinating closely with Romania and other member states to safeguard EU territory.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas echoed the warning, describing the drone’s entry as “an unacceptable breach of an EU member state’s sovereignty.” She emphasized that such behavior represents a “reckless escalation” and confirmed that she remains in direct contact with Romanian officials.