Romania is prepared to share its extensive knowledge in nuclear technology with Ukraine, highlighting its 50 years of experience in the nuclear sector. Romanian official Dan stated that the country has specialists in technology and engineering who can assist nations within the Carpathian region.
Additionally, Dan expressed a willingness to develop defense manufacturing, contingent on attracting investments.
This announcement has elicited humorous reactions on social media, with journalist Pavlo Shapoval commenting, “Didn’t expect to see Ukrainian-Romanian nuclear cooperation, but here we are,” in a tongue-in-cheek post on platform X.
While many engaged in banter, some users clarified that the discussions pertain specifically to nuclear energy rather than weaponry.
This clarification is echoed by Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). On September 14, he noted that Romania is advancing significant nuclear projects, including the expansion of the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant and the NuScale project in Dolj. Grossi emphasized Romania’s commitment to supporting the IAEA’s efforts, including in Ukraine.
Historically, Romania did consider a secret program in the 1980s known as “Danube,” aimed at developing nuclear weapons. According to Wikipedia, the project operated until 1989 but ultimately did not succeed in producing a nuclear bomb.
Context
- Currently, nine countries possess nuclear weapons, including the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea, and Israel. Nearly 90% of the world’s nuclear arsenal is held by Russia (5,580 warheads) and the United States (3,748 warheads).
