Romania expels Russian embassy staffer over drone incursions

Romania has ordered the expulsion of a Russian embassy staff member in response to repeated drone incursions into its airspace. The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the decision via social media, stating that the Russian ambassador, Vladimir Lipajev, was informed.

The expelled individual has been declared "persona non grata" and must depart Romania within five days. The ministry emphasized that Russia's persistent violations of Romanian airspace, which is also part of NATO and European Union territory, are absolutely unacceptable.

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It is absolutely unacceptable that Russia continues to violate Romanian airspace, which is also part of NATO and European Union airspace.

Romanian authorities hold Russia fully responsible for these serious incidents, citing them as a factor in the worsening regional security climate. This action follows a recent event where a Romanian F-16 fighter jet shot down a third drone in three days over the Black Sea, just minutes after it entered the country's airspace.

The expulsion underscores the heightened tensions and security concerns in the region, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical conflicts. Romania's firm stance reflects its commitment to national sovereignty and the security of NATO's eastern flank.

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Russia bears full responsibility for these serious incidents and the worsening regional security climate.