Attitude of the Authority and Society of Romania towards Russia’s war against Ukraine

Abstract

The article examines the evolution of Ukrainian-Romanian relations, which have acquired a new quality and special significance after the start of the Russian-Ukrainian war in 2014. It is noted that for a long time the neighboring countries were largely terra incognita to each other. Since the beginning of the illegal temporary occupation of Crimea by the Russian Federation in 2014, the Republic of Romania has condemned the Kremlin’s aggressive actions and supported the territorial integrity of Ukraine, joined all European sanctions against Russia due to the violation of the territorial integrity of Ukraine, provided diplomatic support for Ukraine and its European integration course in the international arena, and deepened bilateral relations.

The turning points in Ukrainian-Romanian relations were the Revolution of Dignity in 2013-2014. in Ukraine, as well as the beginning of the Russian-Ukrainian war and especially the tragic events of February 2022 – the large-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine. The day of February 24, 2022 significantly changed the perception of Ukrainians by Romanians, as well as the attitude of Ukrainians towards Romania. In particular, from the very beginning of the war, the President and Government of Romania condemned Russia's aggressive actions and, together with the public, the diaspora and the Romanian national community of Bukovina, support Ukraine and Ukrainians, providing them with comprehensive assistance, because Romanians understand, as the President of the Republic of Romania, Klaus Iohannis, emphasized, that “Ukraine is currently fighting and defending not only itself, but for all of Europe”.