Russia's war against Ukraine spilled further into European territory last week after a Russian drone carrying explosives struck a densely populated residential apartment block in Romania.
Drones have regularly strayed into the Romanian city of Galați, which borders Ukraine, since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, but this is the first time a Romanian citizen was injured by a Russian drone in this period.
This situation marks a serious escalation in the direct spillover effects of Russia’s war on Ukraine as it was brought to EU and NATO territory. European partners condemned the drone which forced the evacuation of around 70 residents and injured two people.
High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas said in her statement:
“Russia’s continuing serious violation of European airspace only reinforces our resolve to support Ukraine and its people in their defence against Russia’s war of aggression and their pursuit of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace, in accordance with international law, including the Charter of the United Nations.”
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said he spoke to Romanian President Nicușor Dan and told him the alliance "stands ready to defend every inch of allied territory.” He added, “we will continue to enhance our readiness to deter and defend against any threat, including from drones."
This incident extends beyond Romania itself. It reflects a broader reality that Europe’s security is no longer defined solely by what happens inside Ukraine, but by the direct exposure of EU and NATO member states along its eastern frontier.
Incidents such as Galați also underline how the nature of the war is changing for Europe. Russian drones crossing into EU and NATO airspace are no longer anomalies, but part of a wider changing security environment in Europe.
Liberals stand in full solidarity with Romania after this serious violation of its airspace and international law. As Europe prepares a 21st sanctions package and strengthens its deterrence, it is clear that the defence of Europe’s eastern frontier is now inseparable from the defence of Europe itself.