**Ukraine’s President Holds Trilateral Meeting with Moldova and Romania Leaders**
In a significant move to strengthen cooperation in the face of rising threats from Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hosted a trilateral meeting with Moldovan President Maia Sandu and Romanian President Nicusor Dan on June 11. This meeting marks the first such gathering since Dan’s inauguration last month.
The talks focused on coordinating efforts to counter Russian aggression in the Black Sea region, which has seen an increase in hybrid operations and cyberattacks. Ukraine proposed the establishment of foreign ministry-level coordinators to maintain permanent contact among the three countries. The leaders also discussed regional cooperation, defense, European integration, and support for Moldova’s stability.
**Joint Projects and Defense Against Russian Threats**
The meeting highlighted the importance of joint infrastructure projects, such as the construction of a cross-border highway and improvements to rail connections between Ukraine, Moldova, and Romania. Special attention was given to defending against Russian hybrid threats and cyberattacks, which have intensified across Black Sea states.
**Boosting EU Membership Aspirations**
Romania’s new president, Nicusor Dan, took office on May 26 after winning the presidential election against a far-right opponent who had expressed anti-Ukraine views. His victory is seen as a boost for Ukraine-Romania relations and continued support for Kyiv’s pro-European path.
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine and Moldova must remain united on their path toward EU membership, warning against any attempts to divide the countries during negotiations. Both countries were granted EU membership candidate status in 2022 and launched accession talks two years later.
**Kyivindependent.com**
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