Dan blames Russia for Brașov plant fire attempt

Romanian President Nicușor Dan declared that Russia is responsible for a sabotage network linked to an attempted arson attack on a weapons manufacturing site. He stated that foreign states lack the right to conduct such operations on Romanian soil or within other European nations.

The incident targeted the grounds of the Carfil weapons plant in Brașov on September 14. Romanian intelligence authorities identified a coordination structure based in Moscow. The investigation points to one Ukrainian citizen and two Belarusian nationals as the suspected perpetrators of the fire attempt.

Dan characterized the event as part of a wider hybrid war strategy. He listed influence operations, disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, and physical sabotage as tools used by Moscow to weaken European democracies. The president described the intrusion as a serious violation of the country's sovereignty and security.

The head of state commended the Romanian Intelligence Service for dismantling the network. He assured the public that the government will identify all involved parties and protect critical infrastructure. Dan also confirmed that Romania will maintain close cooperation with NATO allies and European Union partners to prevent similar incidents.

This condemnation follows earlier warnings from Dan regarding a rise in Russian provocations across the European Union. The president framed the Brașov attack as a specific example of that increasing trend. The statement serves as an official response to the exposed espionage and sabotage activities.

The government has signaled a decisive approach to future threats. While no specific new policy was announced in the statement, Dan emphasized the ongoing need for vigilance against covert operations. The focus remains on protecting citizens and maintaining strategic stability in the region.