A Russian drone struck an apartment building in Galati, Romania, on May 29, 2026, resulting in two injuries—a 14-year-old boy and a 53-year-old woman. This incident marks the first time a drone has caused damage to a residential structure in Romania since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Romania's President, Nicusor Dan, termed the drone strike a "serious and irresponsible escalation" by Russia. In response, Romania expelled a Russian diplomat and summoned the Russian ambassador for discussions. Despite claims from Russia's President Vladimir Putin asserting that no evidence links the drone to his country, the Romanian Defense Minister Radu-Dinel Miruta stated that serial numbers from the drone debris indicate it is of Russian origin.

Romanian officials noted that the drone entered Romania's airspace shortly before impacting the building, moving at a speed of nearly 200 kilometers per hour. Defense officials mentioned that two F-16 fighter jets were scrambled to intercept the drone, but insufficient time—around four minutes—prevented any engagement.

The incident has sparked a broader outcry among NATO members, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen labeling it as an incursion that "crossed yet another line." NATO officials emphasized their readiness to defend all member states, reinforcing the alliance's stance on collective defense.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed solidarity with Romania and committed to enhancing security cooperation, including drone co-production to ensure rapid defense capabilities. The drone strike has heightened discussions on reinforcing air defense measures in the NATO eastern flank, as the region grapples with increasing threats from Russia.