Ukrainian premier urges Romanian counterpart to intensify pressure on Russia

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) – Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Tuesday called on newly appointed Romanian Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan to increase pressure on Russia and step up regional coordination.

Congratulating Bolojan on his appointment during an online meeting aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation, Shmyhal praised Romania’s ongoing support for Ukraine, including defense aid and the inclusion of a dedicated Ukraine section in the Romanian government’s new program.

“We discussed the pressing security threats in our region caused by Russia’s war of aggression, focusing on tougher sanctions, greater pressure on Russia, and the use of frozen Russian assets to compensate for the damage,” Shmyhal said in a statement.

He also proposed convening the second joint Ukraine-Romania government meeting and suggested a trilateral summit involving Moldova to address shared regional challenges.

Shmyhal welcomed the recent opening of the Dyakivtsi–Rakovets border crossing for large passenger buses and emphasized Ukraine’s interest in expanding modern transport corridors and border infrastructure.

“I look forward to a close personal dialogue with Prime Minister Bolojan to further strengthen the Ukrainian-Romanian partnership,” he said.