Romania’s foreign minister says European diplomacy should push for “a negotiated temporary ceasefire” in the Middle East to enable civilian evacuations.
Oana Toiu warned that any escalation risks drawing attention and resources from Ukraine, in an interview with TVP World ahead of a meeting with her Polish counterpart Radosław Sikorski in Warsaw.
She called the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei “a turning point,” adding that the priority for European governments is de-escalation and helping their own citizens.
“I think Khamenei’s death is a turning point, but we’re not at the end of the process. We are very worried, especially about the effect it has on the region,” she said.
“I have spoken with my counterparts in the region, and I have shared this with foreign ministers in the EU, that I think we need to have a common voice towards de-escalation, maybe even a negotiated temporary ceasefire that would allow us to properly manage the evacuation of our citizens.”
Risk of distraction with Ukraine
Asked whether the conflict could weaken Moscow by cutting off Iranian support, Țoiu said the pressure on Western attention and resources is “undeniable” and is a risk for Ukraine.
But she also argued that turmoil in Iran could reduce its capacity to back Russia. Shahed‑type drones used against Ukraine draw on Iranian design and cooperation with Moscow.
