Zelenskyy discusses air defense partnership with Romania and regional stability with Lebanon

After his discussion with Romania’s president, Zelenskyy said on Telegram that the two leaders talked about strengthening defense assistance, particularly in air defense systems, and explored potential cooperation through the European Union’s SAFE initiative.

“I briefed him on the current diplomatic situation and the ongoing Russian strikes. Russia continues spurning diplomacy, and we discussed what joint steps could help bring the Russians back to reality,” Zelenskyy wrote.

He added that Ukraine is ready to export defense systems to Romania as part of a broader push for regional security cooperation. The SAFE instrument — a new EU program providing €150 billion ($176.7 billion) in low-cost loans — aims to help member states bolster their defense capabilities.

“We have strong potential for a partnership, and we are equally interested in its realization,” Zelenskyy said, noting that both sides are preparing for an official visit by President Dan to Ukraine.

In a separate statement, Zelenskyy said he spoke with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun about peace efforts in the Middle East, food security, and cooperation in logistics and agricultural technologies.

“Ukraine supports all efforts by Lebanon and the international community to ensure stability in the Middle East. Achieving real peace is equally important for both our regions,” he said, expressing appreciation for Lebanon’s continued support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The calls underline Kyiv’s strategy of deepening defense and diplomatic ties with both European partners and countries across other regions, as Ukraine continues to seek broader international backing amid ongoing Russian aggression.