Romania Warns Russia Is Escalating Hybrid War in Europe

The President of Romania warned that Russia is conducting a hybrid war against European nations through sabotage, disinformation, and cyberattacks. He stated that the broader objective is to escalate the war in Ukraine and provoke other European countries.

Romania has faced increasing Russian drone incursions within its territory and the Black Sea. Since the start of the conflict, Romania has scrambled aircraft 112 times and shot down 54 drones. Similar drone attacks have also targeted the coast of Bulgaria. To counter these threats, Romania has requested temporary equipment and capabilities through NATO and the European safe program.

Regarding the potential for diplomacy, the Romanian leader asserted that any peace process in Ukraine must involve the consent of the Ukrainian people. While he expressed hope that the war could end during the presidency of Donald Trump, he noted that he does not believe Russia currently desires an end to the conflict.