A Russian drone crashed into a residential apartment building in the southeastern city of Galati, Romania, early Friday morning. The drone struck the roof of a 10-story building, triggering a fire and resulting in minor injuries to two people. Several residents were evacuated from the building following the explosion, which occurred approximately 11 kilometers from the Ukrainian border.
Romanian authorities identified the aircraft as a Geran 2 type carrying explosives. The drone was tracked by a newly installed air defense radar for four minutes in Romanian airspace before the impact. In response, the military scrambled two F-16 fighter jets and a helicopter authorized to engage targets, while alert messages were sent to residents. Officials stated the drone was part of an overnight Russian attack on Ukrainian infrastructure.
The incident has been condemned by NATO and EU officials as a reckless and irresponsible escalation. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated that the alliance stands with Romania and warned that Russia's behavior is a danger to all. EU President Ursula von der Leyen asserted that the bloc will continue to increase pressure on Russia. While Romania's president called for a firm and coordinated response, Bucharest noted that the incursion should not be viewed as a direct attack on Romania.
This event marks the first time since the start of the Russian offensive in Ukraine that a drone has hit a residential building in Romania, raising concerns about the war spilling over into NATO territory. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged the United States to accelerate the delivery of Patriot air defense missiles to counter such attacks. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned the Security Council that intensifying attacks risk unknown consequences and called for an immediate, unconditional ceasefire.