Romania destroys drone near gas project, blames Russia
Two F-16 fighter jets scrambled after spotting a drone "loaded with explosives" near a Black Sea gas project. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said the incident was part of "an escalating campaign of threats."
Romania's authorities destroyed a marine drone near the Neptun Deep gas project on Thursday, accusing Russia of the act. This comes amid growing concerns about hybrid warfare, as highlighted by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Drones and mines, allegedly linked to Russia's war in Ukraine, have increasingly targeted NATO member Romania, which borders Ukraine.
Since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Romania has witnessed multiple drone intrusions and mine sightings in its Black Sea waters. President Nicusor Dan denounced the incident, emphasizing his condemnation of Russia's actions and the need for vigilance alongside NATO allies. Romania's Defense Minister Radu Miruta stated the drone was equipped with explosives, citing the safety of over 500 workers on the offshore platform.
The Neptun Deep gas project, jointly operated by OMV Petrom and Romgaz, aims to make Romania the EU's leading gas producer by 2027. Separately, Romania confirmed the crash of an aerial drone into an uninhabited area during Russia's recent strikes on Ukraine. This incident follows recent drone destructions by Romanian army divers in the Neptun Deep project's exclusive economic zone.
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- Sybiha comments on drone incidents in Moldova and Romania ukrinform.net
- Romania destroys sea drone, EU slams 'escalating threats' rte.ie
- Romania destroys drone near gas project, blames Russia dw.com
- Romania confirms sea drone destroyed in Black Sea was not Ukrainian en.interfax.com.ua
- Romania Destroys Drone Near Gas Project, Blames Russia en.tempo.co
