Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday condemned the presence of Russian drones in Romanian territory.
The Kremlin’s air surveillance in Ukraine has persisted while unmanned aircrafts have been reported in neighboring nations this week.
“The Russian military has precise knowledge of where their drones are headed and the duration they can stay airborne. Their paths are meticulously planned. This cannot be random, a mistake, or the result of junior commanders’ decisions,” stated Zelenskyy in a message on X.
“It is an obvious expansion of the war by Russia – and this is exactly how they act. Small steps at first, and eventually big losses,” he continued.
The Romanian Air Force deployed two F-16 fighter jets to track the drone presence before it disappeared near Chilia Veche, according to officials.
The country’s leaders denounced the surprise onslaught of drones, citing security concerns for citizens.
“Romania strongly condemns Russia’s reckless actions that pose a threat to regional stability. Alongside our @NATO Allies, we remain alert and prepared to safeguard every inch of Allied airspace,” said Ionut Mosteanu, Romania’s Minister of National Defense, in an X post, clarifying that the public was never at risk.
On Wednesday, Russian drones intruded into Polish airspace, leading the country to invoke NATO’s Article 4, which calls for a meeting of member nations to plan a joint response to potential threats.
President Trump remarked to reporters that the entry into Polish territory “might have been a mistake,” but several global leaders dismissed this idea, instead viewing it as Moscow’s attempt to escalate the conflict.
“There is a need for sanctions against Russia. Tariffs on Russian commerce are necessary. Collective defense is essential – and Ukraine has suggested to its partners the creation of such a protective system,” Zelensky declared on Saturday.
“Do not wait for dozens of ‘shaheds’ and ballistic missiles before finally making decisions.”
