Political turbulence in Romania could affect the stability of security assistance to Ukraine, making it important for Kyiv to take steps to reduce risks to its defense capabilities, according to international security expert and retired Major General Mykola Zentsev.
Speaking to Ukrinform, Zentsev said Romania holds strategic importance for Ukraine in several key areas.
First, logistics: since 2022, Romania has become one of the main routes for Ukrainian agricultural exports. Significant volumes of grain and other goods are transported through the port infrastructure of Constanța and along Danube routes. During peak periods, exports through these channels have amounted to millions of tons per month, although their share varies depending on the operation of other transport corridors.
Second, security: Romania is a key state on NATO’s eastern flank and plays an important role in maintaining regional security in the Black Sea region. The European F-16 Training Center established at the Fetești Air Base trains pilots from several countries, including Ukrainian aviators.
Third, European integration: as a member of the European Union, Romania participates in decision-making within EU institutions. While EU enlargement decisions require unanimous approval from all member states, financial and political support mechanisms for Ukraine may be adopted under different voting procedures depending on the specific instrument involved.
