Romanian president discusses security, investment and Russia sanctions in US media interviews

Romania Insider · 22.10.2026, 08:24:00

Romanian president Nicușor Dan appeared on conservative US television network Newsmax on Wednesday, October 21, to argue that the economic sanctions against Russia must continue because Moscow is unwilling to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine. Dan welcomed president Donald Trump’s diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine but expressed skepticism about Russian president Vladimir Putin’s willingness to negotiate a peace agreement. “It is very good that the United States is getting involved in trying to establish peace in the war in Ukraine, because it affects the region’s economy and the global economy,” the head of state said, cited by News.ro . “But I do not think Russia is ready to sit down at the negotiating table." Nicușor Dan’s statements came as US special envoy Steve Witkoff met with Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg on the same day, following talks with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in Oslo on Tuesday, October 20. Nicușor Dan said Russia’s economic difficulties underscore the need to maintain pressure while Washington pursues a diplomatic solution. “We know that Russia is facing economic difficulties,” he said. “I think we must continue to impose economic sanctions on them." At the same time, Nicușor Dan praised Donald Trump’s call on European NATO members to take greater responsibility for their own defense instead of relying heavily on the United States. “Once again, president Trump is right,” Dan said, adding that European NATO members, including Romania, recognize the need to increase defense spending. Romania currently spends approximately 2.5% of its gross domestic product on defense and intends to increase this share, Nicușor Dan noted. He also described the growing security threats along Romania’s border with Ukraine and in the Black Sea region. Dan highlighted an increase in Russian drone incursions into Romanian territory. Romania recorded 35 unauthorized drone incursions this year, compared with nine in 2025, according to figures c