EU leaders condemned Russia's 'reckless' military escalation after a Russian drone crashed into a residential building in the eastern Romanian city of Galați, setting the roof on fire. The building was evacuated, and two people suffered minor injuries.
Romanian President Nicușor Dan called it 'the most serious incident to affect the national territory' since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, and urged a 'firm, coordinated response' from European allies.
The incident follows a massive Kremlin bombardment of Kyiv over the weekend and threats to strike foreign citizens and diplomats in the capital.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, 'Russia's war of aggression has crossed yet another line. A Russian drone incursion struck a densely populated area in Romania, injuring civilians. On EU territory.' She confirmed the bloc is preparing a new sanctions package.
European Council President António Costa condemned the 'irresponsible' behavior and called the escalation 'reckless,' adding the EU is united in stepping up pressure.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas spoke with Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu, calling the crash a 'blatant violation of sovereignty' and warning, 'Russia has long ago stopped respecting borders. Moscow cannot be allowed to breach European airspace with impunity.'