Romania convenes National Defense Council over Black Sea security

Romanian President Nicușor Dan has called an extraordinary meeting of the Supreme Council of National Defense to address increasing security risks in the Black Sea. The meeting, held at the Cotroceni Palace in Bucharest, focuses on the country's readiness to respond to emerging threats following a series of incidents involving commercial vessels in the western Black Sea throughout October.

Romanian authorities are discussing measures to protect territorial waters and secure strategic maritime infrastructure. The government has requested additional military support from allies, specifically seeking resources to counter unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), expanded intelligence and surveillance capabilities, and an increased NATO presence in the region. Romania is urging NATO to adapt its defensive measures to the evolving situation.

In response to recent developments, NATO announced it will deploy additional resources to the Black Sea region for surveillance and expertise, while also strengthening its eastern flank with anti-drone capabilities. Additionally, the European Parliament has passed a resolution urging EU member states to consider naval operations to protect shipping and to support Romania and Bulgaria in detecting and tracking hostile drones.