Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that the Black Sea must not remain a zone of Russian influence and called for restoring security in the region, which is crucial for Europe's security architecture.
He made this statement during an online conference titled "Rebuilding Ukraine: Security, Opportunities, Investments" held in Bucharest under the auspices of the foreign ministries of Ukraine and Romania.
Sybiha expressed gratitude to his Romanian counterpart Oana Coiu for supporting Ukraine, emphasizing the significance of the strategic partnership between the two nations.
He drew attention to the systematic violations of Romanian and Moldovan airspace by Russian drones, noting that the hybrid warfare waged by the Russian Federation is becoming less "hybrid" and more evident.
"When a Russian drone penetrates deep into Romanian airspace, it is not an accident. It is a deliberate act of aggression, an escalation of conflict, and a test of resolve," he stressed.
Sybiha also highlighted Ukraine's unique experience in countering mass drone attacks, which contributes to enhancing European security.
"Russia's war against Ukraine is a test for the free world to see if we have learned the lessons of the past. We must prevent another Munich-2 or a new Yalta. This is not just a slogan; it is our moral compass for collective security," he concluded.
The minister noted the strategic importance of the Black Sea as a region free from Russian influence. He also highlighted Turkey's role in ensuring security, freedom of navigation, and food exports in the Black Sea region.
Sybiha emphasized the potential for further cooperation between Ukraine and Romania in the field of renewable energy in the Black Sea.
Furthermore, he discussed with European Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius ways to enhance cooperation between the defense sectors of Ukraine and the EU.