Romanian Border Police rescue more than 400 migrants in Mediterranean Sea

Since the start of 2026, Romanian border police participating in the FRONTEX‑coordinated Operation Italy 2026 have rescued 414 people in distress in the Mediterranean. The units, which include a maritime surveillance vessel and two patrol boats, have carried out 190 search‑and‑rescue missions, amounting to around 1,400 patrol hours across 14 missions.

Romania contributes to the EU’s external border security through the deployment of 167 officers, ten vehicles and four naval assets, while also receiving operational support from FRONTEX, including 241 permanent officers, 274 technical vehicles and an aircraft. The rescued individuals include minors and pregnant women, highlighting the humanitarian impact of the joint effort.

The operation supports Italian authorities in combating illegal migration and protecting lives at sea, illustrating Romania’s role as both a beneficiary and a contributor to European border‑security initiatives.