A Russian drone collided with and crashed into an apartment building in the Romanian city of Galați overnight between May 28 and 29, 2026, injuring two civilians in the incident [1, 2]. Romanian President Nicușor Dan called the strike a serious breach and convened a national defense council meeting on May 29, pledging proportionate measures against Russia. "The unprecedented nature of the event demands a firm, coordinated, and appropriate response — at the national, allied, and international levels," Dan said [2].
EU officials condemned the strike as a grave violation of Romanian sovereignty and European airspace. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the incident as "a blatant and serious violation of Romania’s sovereignty and European airspace," while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, "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" [1, 2].
NATO leaders expressed solidarity with Romania and denounced Russia’s actions. NATO’s Mark Rutte affirmed readiness to defend allied territory, stating, "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" [1].
Romanian armed forces had orders to intercept the drone but did not shoot it down over concerns for civilian safety [2]. The incident came amid simultaneous Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure near the Romania-Ukraine border [2]. Romania has sought additional NATO anti-drone deployments and plans to raise the matter at the UN Security Council, citing repeated Russian violations of international law [2].
The national defense council’s response and allied statements were made on the morning of May 29, following the drone strike during the previous night [1, 2].
