Nicușor Dan denounces Russia’s revisionist agenda at the UN and reaffirms support for Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova

President Nicușor Dan denounced, during the general debate of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, Russia’s revisionist agenda and the war of aggression waged against Ukraine. The speech took place against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict and the intensification of hybrid threats against European states.

The Romanian head of state warned that Russia poses a threat not only to Ukraine, but is carrying out cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, acts of sabotage, and actions against critical infrastructure throughout Europe. The purpose of these operations is to undermine confidence in democratic institutions and reduce support for Ukraine.

Nicușor Dan recalled that Romania, the European Union member state with the longest border with Ukraine, has been directly affected by violations of its airspace and by a drone crashing onto a residential building. He supported increased military spending and stated that Romania is allocating 3.7% of GDP to defense this year, with a view to reaching the 5% target.

Nicușor Dan reaffirmed Romania’s support for Ukraine, including by receiving refugees, facilitating the transit of grain by rail and sea, conducting mine-neutralization operations in the Black Sea, and expanding energy interconnections. Romania is cooperating in this effort with Bulgaria and Turkey.

Regarding the Republic of Moldova, Dan said that Bucharest will continue to support the country’s resilience in the face of Russia’s economic, energy, and political pressures, as well as its European path, through political, technical, and diplomatic support.