Romania Supports US Military Operations in the Middle East

Romania’s interim Foreign Affairs Minister Oana-Silvia Ţoiu stated that the country has agreed to allow the use of its military bases for defensive activities related to tensions with Iran and efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In an interview, Ţoiu emphasized that Romania is not participating in the conflict but is contributing to common defense efforts. She noted that the Romanian Parliament approved the use of military infrastructure for activities such as air refueling. Ţoiu also acknowledged existing tensions between the U.S. and some European allies but expressed the need for enhanced dialogue to prevent further tensions. Romania has raised its defense spending to 2% of GDP and plans to allocate an average of 3.4% next year. Additionally, Romania requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council following a Russian drone strike that impacted a residential building in Galați. Ţoiu reported that the drone was identified as Russian-made and called for international condemnation of the attack. The U.S. has expressed support for Romania, joining over 50 countries in a statement condemning the strike.