A sea drone detonated spontaneously at the Port of Constanta on the morning of June 5, prompting evacuations and an urgent security investigation by Romanian authorities near the Black Sea.
Unscheduled Detonation at Port Facility
On the morning of June 5, a maritime drone discovered near the Romanian Sea Rescue Agency headquarters in the Port of Constanta self-detonated. No casualties were reported following the incident.
The area has been secured and isolated by Romanian intelligence, the coast guard, and the Ministry of Defense. Local residents were evacuated as a precautionary measure.
Investigation into Origins
Romanian authorities are investigating the origin of the device. Initial findings suggest the drone is of the same type currently used in the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The Ministry of Defense confirmed that the drone was not part of the Romanian military’s inventory and had not participated in recent local exercises. The case is currently being handled by the Prosecutor’s Office at the Constanta Court of Appeal.
Second Major Security Incident
Nicusor Dan, who was briefed on the matter while traveling to Montenegro, described the blast as the second major security incident on the Romanian coast this week, following the discovery of a naval mine between Vama Veche and 2 Mai.
Dan stated that such incidents are a direct consequence of Russia’s war against Ukraine. He emphasized that as a NATO member, Romania will remain highly vigilant and continue close cooperation with its allies to protect its national interests and citizens.
