An unidentified naval drone exploded at Romania’s Black Sea port of Constanta, raising fresh security concerns in the NATO member state as the war in neighbouring Ukraine continues to spill into regional waters and airspace.
Romanian officials said the drone was not part of the Romanian Navy or military equipment and that the blast caused no casualties or damage, though authorities launched an investigation and tightened security around the port.
Romania’s Defence Ministry said the maritime drone self-detonated at around 10:30am local time near Constanta port. The blast occurred roughly 500 metres from an oil terminal, sending clouds of smoke rising from the port area.
Foreign media reported a strong explosion, after which police surrounded the area and emergency measures were activated.