Ukraine braces for 'massive new strike' as drones hit Russian facilities; NATO reaffirms defense

A Russian drone recently struck a residential apartment building in the Romanian city of Galati, near the Ukrainian border, resulting in two minor injuries and igniting a fire. The incident occurred during an overnight Russian attack on Ukraine on May 28-29, 2026, marking the first time a Russian drone has directly hit a civilian residence in Romania and caused casualties. Approximately 70 residents were evacuated following the impact.

Romania, a NATO member, swiftly condemned the strike as a "serious and irresponsible escalation" by Moscow, prompting an emergency meeting of its Supreme Defence Council. Romanian authorities detected the drone in their airspace and scrambled two F-16 fighter jets, though the drone was not engaged due to safety concerns for the civilian population.

NATO has strongly denounced Russia's "reckless behavior" and reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to defend "every inch of Allied territory." While the alliance has not invoked Article 5, which covers collective defense, it is focusing on bolstering eastern flank defenses, improving drone interception capabilities, and considering Article 4 consultations. Romania has formally requested its NATO allies to accelerate the transfer of additional anti-drone systems.