Rising pro‑Russian sentiment in Eastern Europe threatens Ukraine

In Central and Eastern Europe, there has been an observed increase in support for parties opposing assistance to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. "Le Monde," as cited by the Polish Press Agency, emphasises that this poses a serious threat to Kyiv, which heavily relies on the aid of its neighbours.

The situation in Romania is particularly concerning, where the impact of a disinformation campaign led to the cancellation of elections dominated by pro-Russian Calin Georgescu. Romania, which shares a border with Ukraine for approximately 600 kilometres, is crucial in transporting Western military equipment, similar to Poland. Mircea Geoana, former Romanian foreign minister, points out that Romania is no less important than Poland in arms deliveries and serves as a repair hub for Ukrainian equipment. French and American soldiers are also stationed in the country, training Ukrainian pilots.

Slovakia's Prime Minister, Robert Fico, criticises Ukraine for ending the transit of Russian gas, affecting relations between the countries. Despite the current alliance with Kyiv in the Czech Republic, upcoming elections could bring changes. The favourite is former Prime Minister Andrej Babisz, who has announced plans to limit support for Ukraine.

Bulgaria is also experiencing a political crisis and shifting towards a pro-Russian stance. Until recently, Boyko Borisov, a pro-Western politician, blocked a cooperation agreement with Ukraine in the European Parliament.

Former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin expresses concerns that although these countries will not stop supporting Kyiv, they may place conditions that hinder Ukraine's European integration. Katarina Kringova from GLOBSEC notes that while most citizens in the region still view Russia as a threat, the situation is changing.