Romania Scrambles Jets to Defend Against Second Russian Drone Incursion This Month

Romania Becomes Second NATO Country to Report Russian Drone Incursion BUCHAREST, Romania - Romanian fighter jets detected a Russian drone breaching the country's airspace on Saturday, marking the second time this month that a NATO member has reported such an incursion. According to the Romanian Defence Ministry, two F-16 aircraft were monitoring the country's border with Ukraine when they spotted the drone 20km south-west of the village of Chilia Veche. The drone was detected while the jets were tracking Russian air attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure near the Danube River. The incident has sparked concerns about Russia's expanding military presence in the region and its willingness to test NATO's defenses. "This is an obvious expansion of the war by Russia," said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who accused Moscow of deliberately sending drones into Romanian airspace. Poland was the first NATO country to report a Russian drone incursion on Wednesday, when it shot down at least three drones that had entered its airspace. The Polish Defence Ministry described the incident as a "serious provocation" and warned that such actions could lead to further escalation. The detection of the Russian drone in Romanian airspace has raised questions about the effectiveness of NATO's air defense systems and the need for increased cooperation between member states. "We take all incidents involving our airspace seriously, and we will continue to work closely with our allies to ensure the security of our skies," said a spokesperson for the Romanian Defence Ministry. The incident is also seen as a test of NATO's ability to respond to Russian aggression in the region. The alliance has been strengthening its military presence in Eastern Europe since Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, and this latest development has highlighted the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among member states. As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, NATO officials are urging calm and caution. "We remain committed to our collective defense and will take all necessary measures to protect our airspace," said a spokesperson for the alliance. The incident is currently under investigation by Romanian authorities, and it remains unclear whether any further action will be taken. Background: Romania has been a member of NATO since 2004 and has played an active role in the alliance's efforts to strengthen its military presence in Eastern Europe. The country shares a border with Ukraine and has been involved in several joint military exercises with other NATO members in recent years. Context: The detection of the Russian drone in Romanian airspace comes amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, which have been at odds over issues such as territorial control and economic interests. The conflict has led to a significant increase in military activity in the region, with both sides engaging in aerial battles and accusing each other of violating their airspace. Perspectives: The incident has sparked concerns among NATO officials about the potential for further escalation and the need for increased cooperation between member states. "We must remain vigilant and work together to ensure our collective defense," said a spokesperson for the alliance. Current Status: The Romanian Defence Ministry is currently investigating the incident, and it remains unclear whether any further action will be taken. NATO officials are urging calm and caution, but the incident has highlighted the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among member states. Next Developments: The incident is likely to be discussed at an upcoming meeting of NATO defence ministers, where officials will review the alliance's military presence in Eastern Europe and discuss ways to strengthen its defenses. *Reporting by Bbc.*