German Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs Johann David Wadephul, visiting Bucharest on Tuesday, said that any violation of the sovereignty of NATO member states is unacceptable and that the Eastern Flank will be defended by allied countries.

'Only a month has passed since Romanian and German fighter jets scrambled together after a Russian drone violated Romanian airspace. This demonstrates NATO solidarity and shows that such infringements of member states' sovereignty are unacceptable. We will defend every square centimetre of NATO territory. We stand united in the Baltic states, Poland, and Romania. Our Eastern Flank will be defended collectively. This is a very positive signal, as Germany is already participating for the fourth time with Eurofighter jets in monitoring NATO's Eastern Flank and securing Romania's airspace,' Wadephul told a press conference held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) headquarters.

The German minister stressed that Russia constantly tests the resolve of member states, but they defend their democratic values 'with caution and determination,' values that clearly irritate Russian President Vladimir Putin.

'We defend ourselves together against Russia's hybrid threats: drones over airports, Russia's phantom fleet that poses risks to both people and the environment, and massive online influence and disinformation campaigns originating from Russian state institutions. We saw during the elections in the Republic of Moldova that we can act collectively to safeguard freedom and democracy in Europe. One thing is clear: Russia seeks to test our resolve every day. We defend our open and democratic values with prudence and determination — values that clearly irritate Putin so much that he sees them, and us, as enemies,' Wadephul said.

He welcomed the reactivation of monitoring on NATO's Eastern Flank and noted that a new sanctions package is being prepared in Brussels to further increase pressure on Moscow.

'Above all, it is vital that Ukraine can always rely on our support. Those who take the defence of our security and freedom in Europe seriously must place support for Ukraine at the centre of all our efforts. Ukraine faces another harsh winter in the midst of war, which is precisely why Putin targets critical energy infrastructure. We must show that we are firmly united in support of Ukraine,' the Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs said.

Johann David Wadephul also advocated for the expansion and reform of the European Union, highlighting the geopolitical importance of these initiatives.

' 'In terms of security, defence, and competitiveness, the European Union is our greatest asset. Only together can we assert ourselves in an increasingly harsh world. If we remain united, further deepen the internal market, and implement necessary reforms, I believe we will be more important and relevant than ever for a free, rules-based global order. This EU influence is strongly felt in Moscow. That is why Putin is concerned and is trying with all his might to divide us,' Wadephul said.

He praised the high level of bilateral economic ties while calling for further growth, particularly in tourism and energy.

'This region holds Europe's largest gas reserves. And of course, our cooperation in security and defence is important. German companies are making interesting investments in Romania. I thank you for your openness and investment-friendly environment. This is vital because we must do more to defend our freedom. Here, as the federal government, we find very close partners in Romania,' the German official said. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Georgiana Tanasescu; EN - writing by: Simona Iacob)