Romania eyed as strategic hub for Black Sea maritime security center
Photo: patrol operations in the Black Sea (Getty Images)
Romania could host a strategic maritime security center, strengthening the defense of the Black Sea and the protection of critical regional infrastructure amid ongoing threats from Russia, according to a publication by Romania Journal.
European Commission backs initiative
Romanian Member of the European Parliament Victor Negrescu said that his proposal to establish a European Maritime Security Center in Romania has received support from the European Commission.
"The Commission’s message is clear: a maritime hub can be created, the European Commission supports this initiative, and such a decision depends on the Black Sea member states, while Romania has all the arguments to host this strategic center," Negrescu said.
Importance for Black Sea security
Negrescu emphasized the hub’s relevance in the context of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. He said the initiative would address maritime route security, protection of critical infrastructure (including cables, energy assets, and ports), countering hybrid threats, and enhancing the EU’s response capacity.
"This hub would mean greater security, better coordination, and a real European presence in the Black Sea, not just statements," he added.
European Commission's position
In an official reply shared by Negrescu, Ursula von der Leyen thanked the MEP and stressed that the final decision on the center’s location rests with EU member states.
"Your support for this new policy is highly appreciated. I have taken note of the substantial arguments in favor of locating the Maritime Security Center in Romania. This decision must be taken by EU member states. I can assure you that the European Commission stands ready to support the decision of the coastal states, including Romania," she wrote.
Next steps
Von der Leyen noted that several EU initiatives developed in response to Russian aggression aim to improve readiness, resilience, and security. The Black Sea Maritime Security Center would coordinate efforts among member states and partners to protect critical maritime infrastructure.
The next step will be a decision by Bucharest on the center’s technical location, ahead of final EU approval.
Separately, Ukraine’s Defense Forces have recently struck assets linked to the Black Sea Fleet, while reports also indicate drone attacks on Russia’s Tamanneftegaz maritime oil terminal in Krasnodar Krai, highlighting ongoing risks to regional maritime infrastructure.
