Romania urges increased support for Ukraine and stronger sanctions against Russia - Odobescu
Photo: Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Luminița Odobescu (Getty Images)
Romania supports the strengthening and acceleration of Western partners' support for Ukraine, as well as the strengthening of sanctions and isolation policy against Russia, stated Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Luminița Odobescu before the informal meeting of EU foreign ministers.
She noted that Russia's goals against Ukraine have not changed. Odobescu also emphasized the need to unblock the European Peace Facility and the EUMAM military assistance mission to provide the Ukrainian army with everything it needs.
The Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that Russia continues to strike at Ukraine's civilian and energy infrastructure, as this has become a norm for Moscow.
In addition, Odobescu emphasized that partners should help Ukraine prepare for the winter. Due to the Russian shelling of the Ukrainian energy sector, it could be very difficult again.
Odobescu also said that Romania will continue to provide support to Ukraine from its side. According to her, it will include assistance for the energy system of both Ukraine and Moldova.
The Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs called for strengthening the policy of international isolation of Russia, which will include increasing sanctions pressure and adopting new restrictions against it. This is necessary as Russia continues to threaten the stability of both Ukraine and Moldova, as well as other European countries.
She noted that she was referring to Russia's hybrid attacks aimed at Ukraine, Moldova, and EU member states.
Romania and its support for Ukraine
Since 2022, Romania has actively supported Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression by providing humanitarian and military assistance. The country has welcomed hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian refugees, offering them housing, medical care, and education.
Romania has also supported international sanctions against Russia, including the initiative to confiscate frozen Russian assets. Additionally, Romania assists Ukraine and Moldova with energy security amid ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure.
Notably, since 2022, Russia has repeatedly violated Romanian airspace. Russian drones and missile debris have fallen on Romanian territory, prompting multiple air raid alerts in the border areas with Ukraine.
Romanian air defense forces are always prepared to defend the country from Russian missiles and drones. Moreover, the country regularly neutralizes Russian mines drifting in the Black Sea.
Earlier, it was reported that Ukraine and Romania signed a security guarantees agreement this month.
