NATO scrambles jets after Russian strikes near Romania

Two German fighter jets were dispatched to Romania's border with Ukraine on Tuesday in response to Russian attacks in the region.

Moscow targeted Ukrainian ports on the Danube River, according to Romania’s Ministry of National Defense. 

However, no intrusions from Russian forces were detected during the German mission. 

“The close cooperation with Allies throughout the enhanced Air Policing Missions strengthens Romania's defense capability and contributes to NATO's deterrence and defense posture on the eastern flank,” Romania’s Ministry of National Defense said in a Wednesday statement. 

Despite these escalations, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Monday warned NATO leaders against deploying troops in Ukraine.

Earlier this month, Russia hit civilian infrastructure in Ukraine’s Ismail region near Romania. Defense officials deployed two Romanian F-16 fighter jets in response to the assault’s close proximity. 

In recent weeks, NATO leaders have increased pressure on the Kremlin as its war with Ukraine continues past its three-year mark.

European leaders met with President Trump at the White House this week alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in an attempt to solidify peace in the region. 

Last week, Trump also met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska to discuss an end to the conflict.

But Moscow has continued its attacks on its neighbor. On Monday, Putin ordered a major overnight attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure followed by a Wednesday drone strike on Okhtyrka, which injured 14 people including a family with young children.

Both offensives also caused widespread fires.

“In total, more than 60 drones and a ballistic missile were used,” Zelensky wrote in a Wednesday post on social media, with accompanying footage of the damage. 

“All of these are demonstrative strikes that only confirm the need to put pressure on Moscow, the need to impose new sanctions and tariffs until diplomacy is fully effective,” he added. 

Trump has refrained from sanctioning Russian trading partners but has remained adamant about ending the war.