NATO reacts after Russia drone hits Romanian apartment building

The strike has been condemned

In the early hours of this morning, a Russia drone which - as per Romanian authorities was part of an attack on Ukraine - hit a Romanian block of flats, injuring two people and causing a fire.

The incident happened in the eastern Romanian city of Galați near the tripoint between Ukraine, Moldova and Romania.

In response, F-16 fighter jets were scrambled by the NATO nation.

Romania's Foreign Minister Toiu Oana described the incident as a "serious and irresponsible escalation" from the Russian Federation.

She wrote on X: "This incident represents a serious and irresponsible escalation on the part of the Russian Federation. Romania will take the necessary diplomatic measures in response to this serious violation of international law and its airspace.

"Romania has informed the Allies and the NATO Secretary General of the circumstances and has requested measures to accelerate the transfer of anti-drone capabilities to Romania.

"The Russian Federation continues to be an aggressor state waging an illegal war with serious implications for regional security and the safety of citizens.

"The Russian Federation bears direct responsibility for these serious and irresponsible actions.

"Romania will act with the utmost firmness to increase international pressure on the Russian Federation for an immediate and comprehensive cessation of hostilities."

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also condemned the drone strike as well as "Russia's reckless behaviour."

"I just spoke with the President of Romania about the Russian drone that hit a residential building in Galati.

"I assured him of NATO’s absolute solidarity with Romania and expressed sympathy for those injured in the incident.

"I affirmed that NATO stands ready to defend every inch of Allied territory.

"We will continue to enhance our readiness to deter and defend against any threat, including from drones.

"Russia’s reckless behaviour is a danger to us all. They continue to target civilians and civilian infrastructure across Ukraine.

"And last night showed yet again that the implications of their illegal war of aggression don’t stop at the border. Russia’s war needs to end, as does Russia’s disregard for civilian safety.

"For our part, we will continue to strengthen our deterrence and defence at home and continue our support for Ukraine as they defend against Russia’s aggression.

Meanwhile, President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen said the incident had "crossed yet another line".

She wrote in a statement on X: "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.

"We stand in full solidarity with Romania and its people. As we continue strengthening our security and deterrence, especially on our Eastern border, we will keep increasing the pressure on Russia.

"We are preparing a 21st package of sanctions."