Romania, the Dutiful

On 23 August, the summit to launch the Crimea Platform — an initiative of Ukrainian President Zelenskyy aimed at strengthening the broad international coalition that does not recognise Russia’s annexation of Crimea — took place in Kyiv. As has often been the case in history, perseverance in the fait accompli generates international recognition. This is what Ukraine is most afraid of now, and they absolutely should fear it since this strategy is exactly what Russia is counting on.

The heads of state and government, ministers and heads of international organisations attended the summit to show Russia that there is a common front against its growing pressure in Eastern Europe and beyond. Romania also attended. The initiative is not a bad one — even though it is useless.

The Crimean Platform will not change anything in the geopolitical reality of eastern Ukraine. But Russia needs to be reminded from time to time that a certain regional and Euro-Atlantic arrangement is opposed to its provocative and aggressive foreign policy. The community of Western democracies must also remind itself of the importance of its unity in dealing with Russia, given the divisive style of Putin’s foreign policy.

Present but not Vocal

At the summit, Romania was represented by the Prime Minister — a man with no relevant political experience, whom many say is rather unsuitable for his post. Naturally, his entire performance at the Crimea Platform was coordinated by the Foreign Ministry, and the Prime Minister, dutifully, did exactly as he was told.