Bucharest, Romania – The Romanian Foreign Ministry stated that Russia’s decision to expel the Romanian consul was expected.
This came days after Bucharest expelled the Russian consul general in Constanta following a drone crash.
The Romanian Foreign Ministry confirmed that the Russian action was in accordance with the principle of reciprocity in diplomatic relations.
It also indicated that Romanian authorities had anticipated a similar response from Moscow following their own decision.
Background of the diplomatic crisis
The current tension stems from Romania decision to expel the Russian consul general in the Black Sea port city of Constanta.
This followed a drone crash that raised security concerns and opened the door to renewed disputes between the two countries.
Relations between Moscow and Bucharest have been strained repeatedly in recent years,
primarily due to the war in Ukraine and its security implications for NATO’s eastern flank.
Russia responded in kind
Russian authorities announced the expulsion of the Romanian consul in retaliation for Bucharest’s action against a Russian diplomat.
Moscow described this as a proportionate response to the Romanian decision.
This development is part of a series of reciprocal measures between the two countries.
Previously, these measures included reducing diplomatic representation
and exchanging accusations regarding activities deemed unacceptable by each side.
Fears of escalating tensions
Observers believe that the exchange of diplomatic expulsions could further strain relations between the two countries.
This comes amid the ongoing repercussions of the Ukrainian war on regional security in the Black Sea region.
Bucharest, for its part, affirms its commitment to protecting its national security and strategic interests.
Meanwhile, Moscow continues to criticize Romanian policies related to supporting Ukraine and coordinating with NATO.
