The attack on Galați

In the early hours of Friday, 29 May 2026, a Russian drone crashed into a residential block in the centre of Galați, Romania, triggering an explosion and fire. The impact occurred around 2:00 a.m. on the 10th floor of the building. Approximately 70 residents were evacuated or self-evacuated from the structure. Two people — a 14-year-old boy and his mother — were injured and hospitalised with second- and third-degree burns after the blast shattered windows and sent molten plastic and metal fragments across their room.

The weapon

Romanian authorities identified the drone as a Geran 2 type, a loitering munition used extensively by Russia in its war against Ukraine. President Nicușor Dan, speaking after visiting the site, said investigators estimated the warhead contained at least 30 kilograms of conventional explosive. The entire payload detonated on impact, according to the Ministry of National Defence. The Prosecutor General's Office has taken over the criminal investigation.

“Am fost cu cei de la Poliția Națională - Investigații Criminale, care au început ancheta lor și am văzut urma exploziei, modul în care ei cercetează, mostre de substanță care să spună ce tip de explozibil a fost. Estimarea lor, cel puțin 30 de kilograme, repet, estimare, și explozibil clasic.”

President Nicușor Dan's response

President Dan visited the injured in hospital and the damaged building on Friday. He described the event as "more than a security incident" and an escalation that "will not be tolerated and will not go unanswered." He stressed that Russia's actions were designed to sow fear and division but insisted Romanian society would remain united around democracy and national integrity. During his press conference, Dan was heckled by a crowd of angry residents demanding his resignation. He acknowledged the public's frustration but urged citizens to follow official emergency guidance.

“Federația Rusă a comis un act grav, care a pus în pericol viețile cetățenilor români pe pământ românesc. Este o escaladare care nu poate fi acceptată, nu va fi tolerată și nici nu va rămâne fără răspuns.”

Air defence gaps

Questioned on why Romania still lacks effective anti-drone systems four years into the war, Dan admitted a continent-wide shortage of specialised equipment. He said Romania has four active projects to address the threat and is working to accelerate them. Intercepting drones with fighter jets near the border, he noted, is "the least optimal method." Interim Defence Minister Radu Miruță announced the emergency signing of eight contracts for anti-drone systems.

“Este o lipsă de astfel de echipamente pe tot continentul. O să vedeți răspunsul în săptămânile următoare.”

International reaction and diplomatic measures

The European Union issued a statement through High Representative Kaja Kallas condemning the incident as "a direct result of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine" and pledged to strengthen security on the Eastern Flank. President Dan thanked the EU for its "firm declaration of solidarity" and insisted Russia cannot violate European airspace without being held accountable. Romania informed NATO allies and the Secretary General, requesting accelerated transfer of anti-drone capabilities. On the diplomatic front, Dan confirmed the expulsion of a Russian consul and the closure of the consulate as a proportional response.

The victims

Medical staff reported that the 14-year-old boy sustained serious injuries including second- and third-degree burns. His mother suffered similar burns; both were in the same room when the explosion occurred. Dan expressed compassion and solidarity with the victims and said authorities had outlined next steps for supporting those affected and restoring damaged areas. Some apartments suffered only minor damage and residents may be able to return relatively quickly pending technical and utility assessments.