This policy brief examines the evolving relationship between Romania and the Associated Trio—Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia—within the framework of European integration and regional security cooperation. The Associated Trio, an informal coalition of Eastern Partnership countries with Association Agreements with the EU, has pursued deeper integration with European institutions. However, challenges such as geopolitical instability, Russia’s war on Ukraine, and internal political struggles have complicated this process.
The report highlights key diplomatic efforts made by the Associated Trio to secure stronger ties with the EU, the obstacles faced due to varying levels of dependency on Russia, and the importance of Romania’s role as a strategic partner. It emphasizes the necessity of security cooperation in the Black Sea region, economic resilience initiatives, and Romania’s potential to act as a regional stabilizer and advocate for Eastern European interests within the EU.
Key recommendations include strengthening multilateral regional coalitions (such as Romania-Ukraine-Moldova), reinforcing security initiatives against Russian hybrid threats, integrating the Associated Trio into EU enlargement policies, and leveraging Romania’s influence to sustain international support for Ukraine. The brief provides insights into the future of Eastern Partnership policies and the role Romania can play in shaping regional stability and European integration.

Hennadiy Maksak-Policy Brief 2022