European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has emphasized the necessity of achieving a ceasefire in Ukraine as a precondition for broader security discussions in Europe. Speaking in Bucharest alongside Romanian President Nicușor Dan, von der Leyen underscored the importance of the upcoming peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, mediated by the United States in Abu Dhabi, focusing on ending the ongoing conflict.
Von der Leyen highlighted that any future talks regarding Europe’s security framework must include NATO allies and European Union member states. She confirmed that the EU is preparing an economic recovery plan for Ukraine to be implemented post-war and working on security guarantees to deter further Russian aggression.
Romanian President Nicușor Dan raised concerns over Russia’s escalating threats to European security, citing drone attacks, sabotage, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns. Dan emphasized the strategic significance of a secure Black Sea region for maintaining peace in Ukraine and ensuring regional trade and energy security.
In response to these threats, von der Leyen announced a €50 million investment to strengthen the Black Sea Maritime Security Hub, which aims to enhance maritime surveillance, information sharing, and critical infrastructure protection. Additionally, €10 million will be allocated to support Romania’s search-and-rescue operations.
Von der Leyen also praised Romania’s defense collaboration with Ukraine, particularly in the area of joint drone production, and highlighted the billions of euros in EU funding available to bolster European defense capabilities. Both leaders called for enhanced regional cooperation and improved security measures to counteract growing Russian threats and promote stability across Europe.