Washington DC/Bucharest, 19 April 2022 (TDI): The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, held a telephonic conversation with the Foreign Minister of Romania, Bogdan Aurescu, to discuss measures to counter Russia.
Both officials talked about the joint efforts to counter the security effects of Russian aggression in Ukraine. Moreover, they agreed to pursue enhanced deterrence and defense on NATO’s Eastern Flank. Both nations reaffirmed their full support for Ukraine.
Furthermore, the two sides reiterated the firmness of the bilateral strategic partnership between Romania and the US.
Also, they discussed defense cooperation and the US and NATO military presence in Romania.
The call was aimed to strengthen the Trans-Atlantic unity against Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. Furthermore, Secretary Blinken applauded Romania’s welcoming of almost 700,000 refugees and its diplomatic and military support for Ukraine.
In addition, the Secretary of Defense, Lloyd J. Austin III, also spoke to the Romanian Defense Minister, Vasile Dincu. They held the conversation to continue coordinating the military response in support of Ukraine.
They discussed the “need for urgent assistance to Ukraine ahead of a likely Russian military offensive in eastern Ukraine.” Moreover, they spoke about forming the French-led NATO battle group in Romania.
Likewise, they focused on the security developments in the Black Sea region. The Romanian Defence Minister expressed gratitude to the US for its commitment and consistent contribution to ensuring the security of NATO’s Eastern Flank.
US-Romania Relations
The US and Romania have a long history of relations. Romania was part of the Eastern bloc during the Cold War, and bilateral relations were strained.
However, since 1989 when it left the bloc, relations between the two countries have grown in scope and importance. The US helped the country transition into a market economy and supported its integration into Europe.
In addition, both nations have now established a strategic partnership that encompasses a wide range of political, military, economic, and cultural issues. Romania is a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the European Union.
