On May 30–31, the Black Sea Security Forum took place in Odesa for the second year in a row — a leading platform for discussing the security challenges of the Black Sea region. This year, one of the Forum’s central topics was the role of the Danube River as a logistical, economic, and geopolitical pillar amid the war.
Following Russia’s full-scale invasion, the Danube river route has literally become a lifeline for Ukrainian exports and global food security. It was through Danube ports that Ukraine partially broke the maritime blockade, restored logistics chains, and delivered agricultural products to countries in critical need. Forum participants repeatedly emphasized: the Danube’s importance in these conditions is an example of how infrastructure becomes a tool for strategic resilience.
The estimated cost of restoring the Danube’s port infrastructure is around €1 billion. This is not just about rebuilding — it’s about modernization, digitalization, and integration into European logistics systems. Without a strong economy, there can be no sustainable security.
The Danube region is also a zone of competing influences. Ukraine’s southwest is home to its largest land border with EU countries. Elections in Romania and Moldova have shown that Ukraine has long neglected systematic engagement with its border communities. This is a missed opportunity that must be addressed — through cultural presence, humanitarian cooperation, and interregional exchanges.
Transnistria remains a source of hybrid instability actively exploited by Russia as a lever of influence. This “grey zone” now requires not only containment but strategic attention from the democratic community. Without neutralizing threats in border regions, peace along the Danube cannot be guaranteed.
The Black Sea and the Danube, as its key tributary, are now viewed within a single security context — a point highlighted in the Forum’s international section. Romanian MP Ștefan Țîntă stressed: “An open Black Sea is a prerequisite for economic development across three continents.” Romania has already formed a joint naval group with Bulgaria and Turkey for demining operations and is ready to participate in ceasefire monitoring in the region.
Danube security is no longer just an infrastructure or environmental issue. It is now one of the key components of European security, requiring coordination at all levels — from local governments to international missions.
The Association “EU Strategy for the Danube Region” will continue working to ensure that Ukraine remains an active participant and contributor to this strategy. Because the Danube is a frontline of development, cooperation, and new European responsibility.
