Romania reaffirms commitment to NATO and regional security

Nicușor Dan emphasizes that Romania is ready to take on a more significant role within NATO and its strategic partnership with the United States. With the country situated on NATO's eastern flank and bordering Ukraine, Romania's proactive stance is essential in the face of escalating threats.

Dan warns that Russia is becoming an increasingly serious threat to Euro-Atlantic security, noting that American intelligence services believe Russia may test NATO's resolve with limited actions against allied countries. Romania's leadership asserts that deterrence is tested first at the edges of the alliance, and Romania is determined to be prepared.

Romania is not asking for more from the United States; instead, it is offering to do more. The country is strengthening its commitments within NATO and has communicated its readiness to take on additional responsibilities. This includes a pledge to allocate 5% of its GDP for defense by 2035 and an estimated investment of between 2.5 and 3 billion euros at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base.

The modernization of Romania's armed forces relies on American systems, including Patriot air and missile defense systems, HIMARS rocket artillery, Abrams tanks, and plans for 32 F-35A jets. Dan asserts that Romanian forces must be ready from day one of a crisis, not after it begins, underscoring that deterrence must start well before any aggression occurs.

A stronger Romania directly contributes to the security of NATO's southeastern flank and the stability of the Black Sea region. Dan expresses Romania's readiness to invest, host, train, modernize, and stand alongside its allies.

The editorial concludes with a strong message: Romania will not wait to be tested before being prepared, reinforcing its commitment to regional security and collaborative defense efforts.