Ensuring Security in the Black Sea: New Challenges and Opportunities

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiga asserted that the Black Sea should not be a zone of Russian influence, emphasizing its security as a crucial part of Europe’s security architecture.
He made these remarks during his speech at the forum "Rebuilding Ukraine: Security, Opportunities, Investments," held in Bucharest under the auspices of the Foreign Ministries of Ukraine and Romania.
Sibiga expressed gratitude to his colleague Oana Coiu and the Romanian side for their support, highlighting the strategic nature of the partnership between Ukraine and Romania.
He drew attention to the systematic violation of Romanian and Moldovan airspace by Russian drones, stating that Russia’s hybrid war in Europe is becoming increasingly overt.
“When a Russian drone crosses deep into Romanian territory and spends nearly an hour in Romanian or Moldovan airspace, it is not a mistake. It is a deliberate attack,” he emphasized.
Sibiga noted that Ukraine has unique experience in countering mass drone attacks and is already contributing to ensuring European security.
“Russia’s war against Ukraine is a test for the free world. There must be a clear understanding: we cannot allow a new Munich or Yalta. This is not just a slogan; it is a moral compass for our collective security,” he stated.
The Minister highlighted that the Black Sea is a strategic artery that cannot become a gray zone of Russian influence. He also acknowledged Turkey's role in ensuring Black Sea security, freedom of navigation, and food exports.
Sibiga emphasized the potential for further collaboration between Ukraine and Romania in developing renewable energy in the Black Sea region.
Additionally, he discussed with European Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius ways to enhance cooperation between Ukraine and the EU defense sectors.