Britain summoned Russia's ambassador after a Russian drone struck a residential building in NATO member Romania during an attack on Ukraine. Two people were injured. The UK condemned the violation of NATO airspace and affirmed commitment to defending allied territory.
The drone strike in NATO member Romania highlights the spillover risks of the Russia-Ukraine war and underscores the heightened tensions and potential for escalation within the alliance. The discovery of stray mines further emphasizes the dangers to civilian infrastructure and maritime security in the Black Sea region.
Britain's Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper summoned Russia's ambassador to the UK after a Russian drone strike impacted a residential building in Romania, a NATO member. The strike occurred during a broader Russian assault on Ukraine and resulted in injuries to two individuals. Cooper condemned the action, stating that Russia's violation of NATO airspace was unacceptable and a stark reminder of the threats faced by Ukrainian civilians. She affirmed that Britain stands united with its allies to defend NATO territory. The incident occurred last week, and the Foreign Office amended its statement to clarify 'latest' bombardment rather than 'later'.
Separately, Romania's navy detonated an anti-landing mine on its Black Sea shore on Wednesday, identified as a Russian YaRM-type. This incident is part of ongoing efforts by a joint task force to manage stray mines in the Black Sea, with Romanian soldiers having neutralized nine such mines since Russia attacked Ukraine.