Merz after Russian drone impact in Romania: We will defend every inch of allied soil
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated NATO will defend "every inch" of allied territory following a Russian drone incursion into Romania.
- Merz called the incident an "imprudent incursion" demonstrating Russia's willingness to escalate the conflict.
- NATO spokesperson Allison Hart condemned Russia's "recklessness" and affirmed the alliance's commitment to strengthening defenses against all threats, including drones.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared that NATO will defend "every inch" of allied territory in response to a Russian drone's incursion into Romania. Merz characterized the incident as an "imprudent incursion" that further demonstrates Russia's readiness to escalate the conflict, emphasizing Germany's solidarity with its NATO allies.
The imprudent incursion of drones by Russia into Romania demonstrates once again Russia's readiness to escalate the conflict. Germany stands with its NATO allies.
"The incident once again underscores the need for a strong NATO posture on the eastern flank. We are prepared to defend every centimeter of allied territory," Merz stated on social media platform X. His comments were echoed by Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who condemned Russia's "irresponsible conduct" after the drone struck a residential building in Galati, near the Ukrainian border, causing minor injuries.
The incident once again underscores the need for a strong NATO posture on the eastern flank. We are prepared to defend every centimeter of allied territory.
Wadephul added, "Russia's irresponsible conduct continues to threaten our collective security. Our response is unity. We stand with Romania." He affirmed that NATO allies would continue to bolster the defense of Ukraine and Europe.
Russia's irresponsible conduct continues to threaten our collective security. Our response is unity. We stand with Romania.
NATO spokesperson Allison Hart also condemned Russia's "recklessness" regarding the incident. She confirmed that the Alliance would continue to strengthen its defenses "against all threats, including drones." The drone impacted the tenth floor of a residential building in Galati, triggering an explosion and forcing the evacuation of approximately 70 people. The incident highlights the heightened security concerns along NATO's eastern flank.
the recklessness of Russia
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.