The states of the Three Seas Initiative need more security cooperation in light of the Russian threat. This was stated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his online participation in the plenary session of the 10th Three Seas Summit.
The Head of State noted that the countries participating in the Three Seas Initiative need to protect their energy infrastructure, especially near the borders with Russia, and develop joint emergency response plans.
According to the President, energy grids, pipelines, communication systems, and other critical infrastructure must be built with backup routes in mind. The region also needs better logistics links – not only for trade, but also for security.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that a lasting peace is needed to implement all of these steps, and it can only be achieved through joint efforts.
“All of Europe – especially our region next to Russia – should speak with one voice. We all want Europe and the U.S. to stay strong partners. We all want this war to end in a fair way – with no rewards for Putin, especially no land,” the Head of State said.
The President called on everyone present to keep the pressure on Russia to help achieve a full and unconditional ceasefire as soon as possible – for at least 30 days – and to continue standing with Ukraine.
“We’re very grateful for your military support – and we still need it, because Russia wants to drag this war out. We also appreciate every investment in our defense industry – and we promise – what we’re building now will protect not only us but also those who invest,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy added.
The Three Seas Initiative (Adriatic – Baltic – Black Sea) is a political and economic forum and a platform for launching new projects and aligning existing ones aimed at developing the transport, energy, and digital infrastructure of EU member states. The Initiative includes 13 EU countries as full members: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Greece.