The Romanian Ministry of Defense confirmed on Friday that a Russian drone struck a residential building in Galati, near the Ukrainian border. The incident resulted in two individuals suffering minor injuries.
Drone Attack in Romania
On the night of May 28-29, Russia resumed its drone assaults targeting civilian structures in Ukraine. During this operation, one drone entered Romanian airspace, according to the ministry’s statement. It was tracked by radar until it crashed onto the roof of a residential building in Galati, causing a fire upon impact.
First Recorded Strike on Residential Property
While incursions of drones into Romania have been reported multiple times since the onset of Russia’s offensive against Ukraine in February 2022, this event marks the first occasion a drone has struck a residential site. The Romanian authorities have been vigilant, continuously monitoring their airspace.
Response from Romanian Defense Forces
Upon detecting the drone near the border, two F-16 fighter jets took off from Fetesti Air Base in eastern Romania. These aircraft were cleared to engage the drone for the entirety of their alert period.
Emergency Response and Aftermath
According to Romanian emergency services, the entire payload of the drone detonated. Fortunately, the two occupants of the impacted apartment evacuated safely. They received immediate medical attention on-site for their superficial injuries.
National Alert in Ukraine
Additionally, a national air alert was activated in Ukraine from Thursday night into Friday, anticipating further Russian strikes. The situation remains tense and continues to evolve, emphasizing the ongoing conflict’s impact on both sides of the border.
