Romanian sheep breeders threaten protests amid livestock disease crisis

Sheep breeders in Romania are threatening large-scale protests in Bucharest following unresolved issues regarding the spread of small ruminant disease. The National Federation of Sheep Breeders (ROMOVIS) has issued an open letter to the government, warning that if concrete measures are not taken, farmers will block roads and bring livestock, agricultural machinery, and manure to the capital.

According to ANSVSA, over 230,000 animals have been affected by the viral disease, leading to widespread sacrifices. Breeders are demanding the eradication of the disease and the restoration of normal animal movement. They cite additional pressures including drought, rising costs, and market access restrictions.

In a related enforcement action, authorities in Vaslui County intercepted a truck illegally transporting 50 sheep without sanitary-veterinary documents or ear tags. The vehicle was not authorized for live animal transport and lacked proper ventilation. The sheep have been placed under sanitary-veterinary sequestration and are slated for euthanasia to prevent the potential spread of disease.