France to Summon Russian Envoy Over Irresponsible Romania Drone Incident
France's Response to the Romania Drone Incident
Background of the Drone Strike
PARIS, May 29 (Reuters) - France will ask Russia's ambassador to explain what happened when he fulfills a summons after a drone struck an apartment building in Romania, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on Friday, calling the incident irresponsible.
Previous Summons and Air Strikes
Barrot had already summoned the Russian envoy earlier this week following air strikes that targeted civilians in Ukraine last weekend.
Pattern of Airspace Violations
"We have an irresponsible act involving a drone, and it is not the first time. On several occasions, Russian drones and other aircraft have strayed into the airspace of the European Union and NATO," Barrot told France Inter radio.
France's Role in NATO and Regional Security
France is the lead NATO nation in Romania, with about 1,500 troops deployed there as part of the alliance's defence posture.
Upcoming Discussions with Allies
Barrot said discussions would take place in the coming days with Romania and NATO to assess the incident.
(Reporting by Dominique Vidalon and John Irish; Editing by Tomasz Janowski and Makini Brice)
