NATO boosting Romania's air defence to counter Russia's unacceptable actions Secretary General says

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has said that NATO is actively working to strengthen Romania's air defence capabilities.

Rutte made this statement during a press conference following his meeting with Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

He noted that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has "reinforced the importance of bolstering air defence, and this remains a top priority for NATO."

"We have discussed NATO member states' efforts to work together to ensure the security of Romania's airspace," he said.

He also accused Russia of "repeated violations of Romania's and NATO's airspace with missiles and drones," calling these actions "unacceptable, reckless, and dangerous." 

Rutte emphasised that NATO member states have already enhanced air defence on the eastern flank, adding that the alliance is "currently acquiring hundreds of fifth-generation fighter jets," referring to the American-made F-35.

A NATO member since 2004, Romania shares a 650km border with Ukraine and has occasionally encountered stray Russian drone debris as Moscow targets Ukrainian ports near the Danube River. In anticipation of the F-35 deliveries, Romania has bolstered its air defence by acquiring 32 used F-16 fighter jets from Norway and 17 acquired from Portugal since 2016.

The F-35 Lightning II is a single-seat, multi-role stealth fighter with advanced air superiority and strike capabilities. Its capabilities also include aerial reconnaissance, strategic bombing, military surveillance and electronic warfare. 

By Naila Huseynova