Oleksii Kuleba attends Three Seas Summit in Warsaw
On 29 April, the Three Seas Summit took place in Warsaw, with Ukraine represented by Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration and Minister for Communities and Territories Development, Oleksii Kuleba.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the summit participants, stressing that the countries of the Three Seas Initiative (3SI) required enhanced security cooperation in light of the russian threat.
The President noted that participating nations must protect energy infrastructure, particularly near russia’s borders, and develop joint contingency plans for emergencies. He emphasised that energy grids, pipelines, communication systems, and other critical infrastructure should be built with backup routes in mind. The region also needs improved logistical connections, not only for trade but also for security.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy underscored that achieving these steps required lasting peace, which could only be secured through collective efforts.
“All of Europe – especially our region next to Russia – should speak with one voice. We all want Europe and the U.S. to stay strong partners. We all want this war to end in a fair way – with no rewards for Putin, especially no land,” the President stated.
He urged attendees to maintain pressure on russia to help achieve a full and unconditional ceasefire as soon as possible – even if only for 30 days – and to stand with Ukraine.
In turn, Oleksii Kuleba highlighted the summit as a significant event demonstrating Ukraine’s integration into the European political, economic, and security space.
“The Three Seas Initiative unites 13 EU countries between the Baltic, Black, and Adriatic Seas, becoming an increasingly robust platform for joint infrastructure, energy, and digital projects.
In the Summit’s final declaration, participants unanimously condemned russian aggression, reaffirmed support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and underscored the importance of Ukraine’s active role in European integration and reconstruction. They highlighted the need for 3SI’s involvement in Ukraine’s rebuilding process and emphasised strengthening infrastructure links, protecting critical assets in the Baltic and Black Seas, and enhancing military mobility – all directly relevant to the security of Ukraine and its partners,” Oleksii Kuleba explained.
He added that Ukraine was actively engaged in the Initiative, implementing transport and energy projects, building new railway and logistical corridors, and integrating into European energy systems.
“We have a clear strategy – to become a full-fledged participant in the Three Seas Initiative, thereby strengthening not only our country but also the security and economy of the entire region.
The Three Seas Initiative views infrastructure development not just as an economic task but as a security component. From this perspective, it’s critical to jointly enhance our transport routes, energy networks, and digital connectivity.
Today in Warsaw, an important idea was voiced: the future of our region will be shaped by those who invest now in shared security, connectivity, and innovation. This aligns with Ukraine’s vision: our victory in the war must translate into a shared victory for Europe, creating a more stable, developed, and united space from the Baltic to the Black Sea,” said the Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration.
Kuleba also expressed gratitude to all partner countries for their support. On the sidelines of the Summit, he held several key meetings with representatives of participating states.
Background
The Three Seas Initiative (Adriatic-Baltic-Black Sea) is a political and economic forum and platform for initiating new projects and synchronising existing ones to develop transport, energy, and digital infrastructure in EU member states. Full members include 13 EU countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Greece.