A Russian drone has struck an apartment block in the Romanian city of Galati, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for Nato to invoke Article 4. The Romanian foreign ministry described the incident as a 'serious and irresponsible escalation on the part of the Russian Federation'. Foreign minister Oana Toiu said the event should trigger Nato Article 4, which allows member states to request an emergency meeting if they feel their security is threatened.
Nato chief Mark Rutte condemned the attack, stating: 'Last night showed yet again that the implications of their illegal war of aggression don’t stop at the border. Nato stands ready to defend every inch of allied territory.' European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said Russia had 'crossed another line', adding: 'We stand in full solidarity with Romania and its people.'
Romanian brigadier general Maxim said the drone breached defences for a very short time and flew below radar capabilities. He noted that the US anti-drone system Merops is operational but has not yet been integrated into the national defence system. Two F-16 fighter jets were scrambled after the incident, and residents in the area received warning messages.
This is not the first time Russian drones have entered Nato airspace. In September last year, dozens entered Polish airspace, prompting Nato and the Polish Air Force to scramble fighter jets. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the attack a 'serious violation of Nato airspace', adding: 'Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure threatens the security of our entire continent.'
Article 4 has been invoked several times in the past, including by Turkey in 2002 and jointly by several Nato members after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. If invoked, members may take 'action it deems necessary' to restore and maintain security, which could include the use of armed forces. Moldova's President Maia Sandu said Russia is a 'danger to all and must be stopped', while Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky called for stronger EU sanctions against Russia.
