Drone Explodes in Romanian Port as Ukraine Blames Russian Electronic Warfare

A maritime drone exploded at Romania’s Black Sea port of Constanța on Friday, triggering a major security response and raising fresh concerns about the spillover effects of the war in Ukraine. Authorities confirmed that no casualties were recorded following the incident.

According to Ukrainian officials, the unmanned surface vessel was conducting operations in the Black Sea when it reportedly lost navigational control after being affected by Russian electronic warfare systems. Kyiv said the drone drifted into Romanian waters before detonating near the port.

Romanian authorities quickly sealed off the affected area and launched an investigation into the explosion. Emergency services, military personnel, and coast guard units were deployed, while more than 1,000 people were evacuated from nearby beaches and coastal areas as a precaution. The area was later declared safe.

Ukraine’s Navy acknowledged that the drone belonged to its forces and said it had informed Romanian authorities after losing control of the vessel. Romanian officials have not reported any damage to critical infrastructure, though prosecutors have opened an inquiry into the incident.

The explosion comes amid increasing concerns over the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on neighboring NATO countries. It follows another recent incident in which a drone linked to the war crashed in Romania, injuring civilians and prompting renewed calls for stronger regional security measures.

Romanian President Nicușor Dan and other European leaders have warned that Russia’s war against Ukraine continues to create security risks beyond Ukraine’s borders. Moscow has denied responsibility for the Constanța incident and has accused Ukraine of endangering regional stability.

The incident highlights the growing role of electronic warfare in the conflict and the increasing risk that military drones operating in the Black Sea could stray into neighboring countries, potentially escalating tensions in the wider region.