Romania Evacuates Village After Russian Drone Strike Ignites Tanker

Romanian authorities initiated an evacuation of the village of Plauru following a Russian drone strike that set a gas tanker ablaze on the Danube River. The tanker, named ORINDA and flagged from Turkey, was carrying approximately 1.8 million gallons of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) when it caught fire near the Ukrainian port city of Izmail. The incident has raised serious safety concerns, prompting immediate action from local officials.

In response to the imminent threat posed by the flaming tanker, which is located just a few hundred meters from the village, Mayor Tudor Cernega of the Ceatalchioi commune stated, “It could explode at any time.” The mayor emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting, “We checked house by house, we also took out the animals. We closed off traffic; the danger is great.”

According to the Romanian Department for Emergency Situations, the fire erupted on the night of March 10, 2024, following a drone attack that originated from Ukrainian territory. The department confirmed that the entire Ceatalchioi commune, home to around 250 residents, was evacuated as a precautionary measure. Emergency vehicles and ambulances were dispatched to facilitate the evacuation and ensure the safety of the residents.

The crew aboard the ORINDA successfully evacuated before the fire spread, with videos circulating on social media showing large plumes of smoke and flames billowing from the vessel. The incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with the conflict in Ukraine, as Moscow has increasingly targeted Ukrainian port facilities along the Danube River.

Authorities have also noted that remnants of drones used in attacks have been discovered on Romanian soil, underscoring the potential spillover effects of the war. The situation remains dynamic, and local officials continue to monitor the area closely.

As the region grapples with the implications of this attack, the Romanian government is likely to reassess security measures along its border with Ukraine to prevent any further incidents.