BUCHAREST: Romania’s defense ministry has accused Russia of engaging in “aggressive and dangerous” behavior after a Russian fighter intercepted a Polish plane that was conducting a routine patrol for the European Union’s border agency over the Black Sea.
The incident occurred on Friday, according to a statement from the ministry.
The Polish border guard plane, operating under the auspices of Frontex, was conducting a joint patrol with Romanian border police when it was subjected to multiple “aggressive and dangerous maneuvers” by a Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet, the statement explained.
Despite the provocation, the Polish crew successfully landed the plane and no injuries were reported.
NATO placed Romanian and Spanish planes on “pre-alert” during the incident. The interception occurred in international airspace over the Black Sea, approximately 60 kilometers east of Romania’s airspace, the defense ministry stated.
Bucharest condemned the incident, viewing it as further evidence of Russia’s provocative approach in the Black Sea region. The country expressed concerns over the repeated aggressive actions by the Russian Federation.
Polish border guards decline to comment
The European border agency, Frontex, did not immediately respond to requests for comment from AFP. Polish border guards declined to comment on the incident and stated that an official statement would be issued on Sunday.
The Polish plane has been deployed in Romania as part of a Frontex operation since April 19 and is scheduled to remain there until May 17.
The joint operation, organized by Romania and involving Spain and Sweden, aims to enhance border security in the region.
Tensions in the Black Sea have been escalating in recent years, with numerous incidents involving Russian military aircraft and vessels.
The interception of the Polish plane adds to the existing concerns regarding the provocative actions of the Russian Federation and highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among NATO member states and their partners in ensuring regional security.
