Romania’s Foreign Minister Luminita Odobescu and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had a telephone conversation on Thursday to discuss the regional security situation, including the violation of Romania’s airspace following Russian attacks on Ukrainian river ports, Romania’s Foreign Ministry (MAE) reports.

The two officials also touched on Russia’s attack on a merchant ship carrying grain in the Black Sea.

Odobescu welcomed the support and solidarity of the US and its allies with Romania and underscored the importance of keeping the developments in the Black Sea and the region in NATO’s constant attention. She welcomed her US counterpart’s reiteration of the U.S. commitment to defend every inch of NATO territory. She added that the allies „must implement all the commitments pledged in order to ensure the security of the Euro-Atlantic space, in general, and of the Black Sea region in particular.”

The two officials also discussed recent developments in the support they provide to Ukraine against the illegal and unjustified aggression of the Russian Federation. The American side reiterated its appreciation for Romania’s decision to donate a Patriot system to Ukraine, a donation of particular importance amidst the continuation of Russian air attacks against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.

Blinken underlined the US commitment to continuing measures to strengthen Romania’s defence capability. Both officials reiterated their support for Moldova in its efforts to reject Russia’s hybrid actions, which are aimed at influencing the outcome of the October electoral processes.

At the same time, the two officials reviewed Romania’s substantial progress with meeting the conditions for joining the Visa Waiver Program.

AGERPRES