Romania, Moldova Boost Security Ties After Drone Incident

Romania and Moldova are intensifying their security cooperation to address the complex challenges posed by the ongoing war in Ukraine, particularly after a recent drone incident in Galați, Romania. Interim Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan visited Chișinău to meet with his Moldovan counterpart, Alexandru Munteanu, discussing shared security concerns.

The drone crash in Galați, which caused an explosion and fire in an apartment building, prompted a RO-Alert emergency message for nearby regions. Bolojan condemned the incident as "unacceptable" and stated that Romania has requested military equipment from NATO. These requests include radar systems for detecting low-altitude drones and anti-aircraft defenses, as current capabilities are deemed disproportionate to the threats faced.

“

We have requested NATO to transmit military equipment to allow us, on the one hand, to visualize drones that come at low altitude. These radar systems will be purchased through SAFE, but will be delivered in the coming months, and therefore within two years. We have requested the transfer of anti-aircraft systems, because, to shoot them down, the equipment we have is disproportionate to the situation on the ground.

"We have requested NATO to transmit military equipment to allow us, on the one hand, to visualize drones that come at low altitude. These radar systems will be purchased through SAFE, but will be delivered in the coming months, and therefore within two years. We have requested the transfer of anti-aircraft systems, because, to shoot them down, the equipment we have is disproportionate to the situation on the ground," Bolojan explained.

“

I had some doubts that flights would be canceled, but it's good that you arrived safely.

During their meeting, Munteanu conveyed that he had "some doubts that flights would be canceled" due to the drone incident, expressing relief that Bolojan arrived safely. The discussions between the Romanian and Moldovan prime ministers also focused on joint projects and cooperation between the two states, underscoring Romania's consistent support for Moldova.

Bolojan emphasized that both Romania and Moldova face significant security issues that require careful management to protect their citizens. The situation in the region is described as complicated and worrying for both nations, highlighting the need for continued collaboration and enhanced defense capabilities.

“

The incident in Galați, where a drone crashed on a building, is unacceptable.