Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held separate discussions with Romanian President Nicusor Dan and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, focusing on defense cooperation, regional security, and diplomatic efforts. The calls took place Friday as Ukraine seeks to strengthen alliances amidst ongoing tensions with Russia.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy briefed President Dan on the current diplomatic landscape and ongoing Russian strikes. He emphasized the need for joint measures to address Russia's disregard for diplomacy. The leaders explored defense assistance, air defense needs, and potential collaboration under the EU's SAFE instrument. Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine's readiness to export defense systems to Romania, underscoring the strong potential for partnership.

SAFE, a European Union initiative, offers pound 150 billion ($176.7 billion) in low-cost loans to member states to enhance their defense capabilities. Zelenskyy expressed interest in realizing the partnership potential and extended an invitation to President Dan to visit Ukraine, with preparations for the visit underway.

In his conversation with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Zelenskyy discussed regional peace efforts, food security, and cooperation in logistics and agricultural technologies. He affirmed Ukraine's support for Lebanon's efforts and those of the international community to ensure stability in the Middle East, acknowledging Lebanon's support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.