Romania Responds to Putin: Attempts to Blame Bucharest for the War Against Ukraine Have Been Firmly Rebutted
In contemporary geopolitical reports and diplomatic discussions among NATO member states and Russia, the issue of responsibility for the ongoing war in Ukraine has become increasingly prominent. A recent statement by Russian President Vladimir Putin, in which he accuses Romania and Bulgaria of contributing to tensions and attributes a significant portion of responsibility for the destructive conflict to them, provoked a sharp reaction from the official Bucharest. Romania's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a clear and stern response through spokesman Andrei Căstânea, emphasizing that any accusations from the Russian leadership are nothing more than attempts to shift responsibility for aggression onto other countries. According to the diplomat, Romania's decision to join NATO is a sovereign choice made by the free citizens of the country and allied nations, which in no way threatens regional stability or security. On the contrary, Căstânea highlighted that this strategic integration is a response to Russian aggression and aims to protect the European space from Russia's war-mongering disorder. The spokesperson separately pointed out that Putin, in his rhetoric, revisits well-known narratives that served as pretexts for initiating the war, including the annexation of Crimea and the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. "The only true threat to stability in Europe is the Russian Federation. It is conducting an illegal war, brutally shelling civilian populations, and committing numerous war crimes. Moreover, the Kremlin actively spreads disinformation and engages in anti-European, anti-NATO propaganda aimed at weakening the unity of Western values," Căstânea stated. In responding cautiously yet decisively to the accusations, he emphasized that Russia uses propaganda tools to justify its aggression. A particularly illustrative example is a statement included in a propaganda documentary titled "Russia. Kremlin. Putin. 25 Years," broadcast by the Russian state television channel "Russia-1." In this film, based on archival footage and interviews, there is a quote from the Russian leader made several years ago, in which Putin blames the possible deployment of American bases in Bulgaria and Romania in the context of American expansionism. The video also features current citations where he states that his previous remarks were meant to convey a concept to the West and observe the reaction, which did not meet his expectations — ultimately leading to the war in Ukraine. Footage and commentary in the film confirm that the Kremlin attempts to justify its aggression, including through ideas about the “threat” posed by NATO and the West. The film also mentions Putin’s long-standing narrative, especially concerning the annexation of Crimea and the war in Ukraine, portraying his actions as necessary to defend Russian interests. American and European analysts have noted that this documentary employs crude and cynical manipulations of history and current events to craft an ideological front solely aimed at justifying Putin’s policies. According to reports, the statements by Putin and archival footage presented in the film are part of an information campaign designed to bolster support within Russia and to create an idealized image of the leader for his supporters. These messages are actively accompanied by calls to "defend Russian interests" and deny any provocations from the West. Meanwhile, Putin repeatedly underscores that his main goal is solely to maintain Russia’s influence, even through war, while expressing hope that nuclear weapons will never be used. In the Romanian parliament, the debate over the war and its consequences continues actively. Notably, in early May, ultra-right candidate George Simiton won the first round of the presidential elections. Simiton openly espouses pro-Russian views. His support was around 41%, compared to less than 21% for his main opponent, the liberal Bucharest mayor Nicușor Dan. Although Simiton was banned from entering Ukraine in 2024 due to anti-Ukrainian activities, his supporters continue to advocate for an open policy with Russia and oppose arms supplies to the Ukrainian army. These events demonstrate not only internal political tensions but also a broad geopolitical context. Romania, as a NATO member and one of Ukraine’s most active partners, maintains an independent and free diplomatic stance, rejecting fabricated accusations and striving to ensure regional security and stability, while actively countering Russian propaganda efforts aimed at sowing discord and despair.