This policy brief explores the reactions of Black Sea countries—Bulgaria, Romania, Türkiye, Georgia, and Moldova—to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The report highlights how each state, influenced by its geopolitical position, economic ties with Russia, and security concerns, has responded to the war. While all countries in the region have condemned Russia’s aggression, their levels of support for Ukraine vary significantly due to political, economic, and security constraints.
The analysis examines Romania’s strong alignment with Western efforts, Moldova’s cautious stance due to its economic vulnerabilities, and Türkiye’s balancing act between NATO obligations and maintaining relations with Russia. It also discusses Bulgaria’s mixed response and Georgia’s strategic hesitance due to its own territorial disputes with Russia. The report further details the impact of the war on Black Sea security, including the Russian naval blockade, energy supply disruptions, and risks posed to regional stability.
Key recommendations focus on strengthening regional cooperation in countering Russian aggression, increasing military and economic support for Ukraine, and securing Black Sea trade routes. The brief underscores the importance of diplomatic coordination between Ukraine and its Black Sea neighbors to ensure a unified response to ongoing security threats.

Mykhailo Drapak-Policy Brief 2022