Odessa, Ukraine – In a powerful address delivered on Wednesday at the Ukraine – South-Eastern Europe Summit, Romanian President Nicușor Dan called for unwavering resolve in denouncing Russia’s actions, which he described as deliberate efforts to “delay and sabotage the peace process.”
Speaking alongside regional leaders gathered in Odessa, President Dan emphasized that the Kremlin continues to reject any credible peace initiatives while making “unreasonable demands” designed to derail international negotiations.
“The only language that Russia understands is force,” Dan declared. “We must do everything we can to ensure that Ukraine can negotiate from a position of strength. That is why we must be firm in condemning Russia’s actions.”
A Just Peace, Rooted in International Law
The Romanian head of state highlighted recent global discussions concerning what a “just, lasting, and comprehensive peace” for Ukraine might entail. He commended President Volodymyr Zelensky’s continued openness to diplomacy, citing Ukraine’s peace formula based on the UN Charter and international law — a proposal supported by the vast majority of the international community.
“Ukraine has always preferred peace to war,” Dan said. “When the U.S. peace initiative showed promise, President Zelensky agreed to a ceasefire and even offered to meet President Putin. Yet Russia continues to reject any constructive approach.”
Unity in Defense of Democratic Values
President Dan urged European countries to remain united in their commitment to the core values of international law, human dignity, freedom, and democracy — principles that he said the Ukrainian people defend daily at great cost.
“The countries gathered here today are either part of the European Union or aspire to join it,” he noted. “Romania’s own experience proves that EU accession is a transformative path — one that brings development, stability, and security. We must continue working together to build our shared European future.”
Dan encouraged stronger regional coordination through frameworks like the current summit, as a means of maintaining unity and momentum in times of geopolitical uncertainty.
Strategic Cooperation and Regional Security
On the sidelines of the summit, President Nicușor Dan also took part in a trilateral meeting between Romania, the Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine. Discussions focused on accelerating major energy infrastructure interconnection projects, advancing each country’s EU accession process, and enhancing cooperation on regional security and resilience.
The summit in Odessa brought together 11 heads of state, government leaders, and parliamentary figures from across the region — including representatives from Ukraine, Romania, the Republic of Moldova, Serbia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Slovenia, Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Greece.
This high-level gathering underscored a growing consensus in South-Eastern Europe: that peace can only be achieved through unity, strength, and a steadfast commitment to democratic values.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine: “Grateful to all the leaders and partners who came together in Odesa for the Fourth Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit: Nicusor Dan, Maia Sandu, Andrej Plenković..
Your presence sends a clear, united message against Russia’s attempts to destabilize our region and undermine sovereignty in Europe.
This format of cooperation matters — and we must keep building on it. More support is on the way. Thank you for helping defend lives and the values we all share.” x.com/ZelenskyyUa
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