NATO Member Romania Scrambles F-16s as Russian Drone Breaches Airspace Near Tulcea

Jan 17, 2025, 07:00 AM

Romania's national airspace was breached overnight during a Russian drone attack on Ukraine, according to statements from the Romanian Ministry of Defense. A Russian drone was discovered near the city of Tulcea, close to the northeastern border with Ukraine. The incidents occurred near the port of Chilia Nouă (Kilija) on the Danube River, where Russian forces conducted drone strikes on Ukrainian towns. Two Romanian F-16 fighter jets were scrambled to monitor the situation. Traces of a possible drone impact were found near Plauru, Tulcea County. Residents in the area received RO-ALERT messages warning of potential falling objects due to the conflict in Ukraine. Romania, a NATO member state, "strongly condemns Russia's actions," stating that the illegal and unprovoked aggression against Ukraine poses risks to the entire region.