Romania plans drone production with Ukraine, more US soldiers expected

Romania is planning to work with Ukraine to produce defense drones that will not only meet its own needs but also those of its allies in the EU and NATO. “We believe it is strategically important to better protect the eastern flank, especially in the area of air defense,” said Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Toiu.

The plans were already in place before the recent violations of the airspace of several countries, including Estonia, Poland, and Romania. The region blames Russia for this, but Moscow rejects this and emphasizes that it is not planning any attacks on EU and NATO countries.

To support operations in the Middle East, Romania has also agreed to an increase in US troops on its territory. Currently, around 80,000 US Army personnel are stationed in Europe.

In addition, the country plans to invest €2.5 billion in expanding the Mihail Kogălniceanu air base, whose capacity is to be increased to 10,000 soldiers.

Although the US Department of Defense is remaining silent on exact figures and timelines, statements from Washington indicate that the US is working closely with its partners in the region.

(reuters, max)