Image credit: en.kremlin.ru
Romania and Latvia have accused Russia of violating their airspace with military drones targeting infrastructure in neighbouring Ukraine. The allegations, made on September 14, 2024, have sparked a fresh wave of international concern and highlight the growing risks of conflict spillover in Eastern Europe.
Romanian Defence Minister confirmed that Romanian airspace was breached by Russian drones, which were reportedly striking Ukrainian infrastructure. Similarly, Latvia’s Defence Ministry reported that Russian drones had also entered its airspace, raising alarms about the potential for wider regional conflict. Latvian Defence Minister, Artis Pabriks, condemned the intrusion, stating, “The violation of our airspace by foreign military assets is unacceptable and poses a significant threat to our national security.”
The drones, which were reportedly targeting Ukrainian energy and logistical infrastructure, have been described as part of a broader pattern of Russian military operations aimed at disrupting Ukraine’s critical systems. This development comes amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where Russian forces have been engaged in sustained operations against Ukrainian military and civilian targets.
Both Romania and Latvia are NATO member states, and the incursions have drawn attention from the alliance’s leadership. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has called for a thorough investigation into the incidents and reaffirmed the alliance’s commitment to safeguarding member states’ sovereignty.
The incidents have intensified calls for enhanced security measures and increased vigilance among NATO members. In response, Romania and Latvia are reportedly increasing their aerial surveillance and defence readiness to prevent further breaches. The Romanian Air Force has been placed on high alert, and Latvia is coordinating with neighbouring countries to bolster airspace security.