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Romania Expels Russian Consul, Shuts Consulate After Drone Strike

5/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Romania declared the Russian consul in Constanta persona non grata and ordered the consulate’s closure after the drone strike.
The Romanian Air Force scrambled two F-16 jets and a helicopter, authorized to engage the Geran-2 drone but did not fire.
President Nicusor Dan convened the Supreme Council of National Defense, labeled the attack the worst since the war began, and announced proportional measures against Russia.

History

Historical Context

After Russia annexed Crimea in March 2014, the EU declared 19 Russian diplomats persona non grata and NATO members expelled dozens of officials, launching a coordinated diplomatic push. Romania, a NATO ally, later sent F-16s and a helicopter to intercept a Geran-2 drone, and President Nicusor Dan’s 2024 declaration of the Russian consul persona non grata mirrors that 2014 response, showing Bucharest’s heightened resolve.

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Story summary

Romania declared the Russian consul in Constanta persona non grata and ordered the consulate’s closure after the drone strike.
The Romanian Air Force scrambled two F-16 jets and a helicopter, authorized to engage the Geran-2 drone but did not fire.
President Nicusor Dan convened the Supreme Council of National Defense, labeled the attack the worst since the war began, and announced proportional measures against Russia.

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