New Strategy Center has published a new study entitled “A Strategic Framework for Romania’s Role in Ukraine’s Reconstruction: Connectivity, Security and Economic Partnership”, which examines the prospects for cooperation between Romania and Ukraine in the reconstruction of Ukraine, as well as the ways in which Romania can contribute to this effort by enhancing regional connectivity, strengthening economic partnerships, and expanding security cooperation.
Ukraine’s reconstruction is, first and foremost, about connectivity within the strategic Romania–Republic of Moldova–Ukraine triangle, cross-border cooperation, and capitalizing on Romania’s geographical proximity to southern Ukraine, a region severely affected by the destruction caused by the war.
A bridge across the Danube between Isaccea and Orlivka would establish the first direct land connection between southern Ukraine and the European Union via Romania. A logistics hub bringing together the ports of Galați and Brăila (Romania), Reni and Izmail (Ukraine), and Giurgiulești (Republic of Moldova) would capitalize on the Danube’s strategic importance as a direct transport route linking southern Germany to southern Ukraine. Connecting the ports of Gdańsk and Constanța through a railway corridor crossing western Ukraine would be significant not only for economic development but also for military mobility in the post-war period.
The study emphasizes the development of transport infrastructure and logistics corridors, the Danube’s strategic role as a transport artery, economic cooperation and investment, the defence industry, and energy interconnections. The analysis also explores opportunities in other areas, including civil protection and support for EU-funded programmes aimed at the reintegration of Ukrainian veterans.
The study concludes with concrete recommendations designed to strengthen bilateral cooperation and contribute to the development of a lasting Romanian-Ukrainian partnership, with long-term implications for regional connectivity, security, and European economic integration.
The study was authored by Dilara Kakillioglu, Head of the Research Department at New Strategy Center, and George Scutaru, Director General of New Strategy Center.