Germany calls for reinforced NATO eastern flank after Romania drone strike

The German government has expressed solidarity with Romania following a reported Russian drone incident on its territory, calling for a stronger NATO presence on the alliance’s eastern flank.

According to dpa, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on the social media platform X that the incident demonstrates Russia’s readiness to escalate tensions.

Der Drohneneinschlag in Rumänien zeigt einmal mehr Russlands Bereitschaft zur Eskalation. Deutschland steht an der Seite unserer NATO‑Verbündeten. Der Vorfall zeigt erneut: Wir brauchen eine starke NATO-Präsenz an der Ostflanke. Wir sind bereit, das Bündnisgebiet zu verteidigen.

— Bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz (@bundeskanzler) May 29, 2026

“Germany stands shoulder to shoulder with its NATO allies,” Merz said. “This incident once again shows: we need a strong NATO presence on the eastern flank. We are ready to defend Alliance territory.”

A Russian drone reportedly struck a high-rise residential building in the city of Galați near the Ukrainian border overnight on Thursday. A fire broke out on the 10th floor, and two people suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

Germany’s Defence Ministry said the incident did not indicate a change in the overall security situation, stressing that NATO remains a defensive alliance.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Russia’s actions continued to pose risks to collective security.

#Russia’s reckless behavior continues to threaten our collective security. Our response is unity. We stand with #Romania 🇷🇴. Our thoughts are with those injured in tonights drone crash. We will continue to strengthen 🇺🇦 & European defence in #NATO.

— Johann Wadephul (@AussenMinDE) May 29, 2026

“Russia’s reckless behaviour continues to threaten our collective security,” he said. “Our response is unity. We stand with Romania.  Our thoughts are with those injured in tonights drone crash.”