INTERVIEW MOLDPRES // Paun Rohovei, Ambassador of Ukraine: "Moldova–EU Summit conveys clear signal - Chisinau stays firm on path of European integration''

Exclusive interview with His Excellency, Paun Rohovei, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Ukraine to Moldova, with MOLDPRES State News Agency.

MOLDPRES: Mr. Rohovei, thank you for your willingness to speak with the MOLDPRES team. Moldova and Ukraine, neighboring states with similar experiences, have assumed a common future in the European Union. Chisinau hosts the first bilateral Moldova-European Union summit, with support for Ukraine being one of the main topics to be discussed at this meeting. How would you characterize the current cooperation relations between the two states, in the context of ensuring peace and security in the region?

Paun Rohovei: Thank you for the question. First of all, I would like to highlight a fundamental fact: European and Euro-Atlantic integration are two fundamental priorities for Ukraine, stipulated in our Constitution. European integration is also a priority for Moldova - our neighbors and friends. We thus have a common point and an immense opportunity: integration into the European Union means prosperity, respect for human rights, freedom of movement, economic development and an open market - essentially, well-being for every citizen. Both Ukraine and Moldova, by the will of their peoples, have made a civilizational choice: our place is in Europe. We have excellent coordination in this process - a permanent dialogue that allows us to exchange experiences, cooperate in harmonizing legislation with European one, and approach EU standards. The summit is an important step, an achievement for Moldova, but also a clear signal of stability and predictability in the region. Moldova thus signals that it does not change its priorities, but looks firmly towards the European future. At the same time, Moldova's European future is also in Ukraine's interest - and Ukraine's integration is, in turn, in Moldova's interest. This closeness will bring not only peace and security, but also prosperity to the entire region.

MOLDPRES: Already nearly three and a half years have passed since the brutal war was started by the Russian Federation - an unjust war, devastating Ukraine and its people's lives. Moldova condemned it from day one and provided support to Ukraine. How do you see the evolution of events in this context?

Paun Rohovei: I want to start by sincerely thanking the President of the Republic of Moldova, the Government, Parliament, and especially Moldovan civil society, which has shown deep solidarity with the Ukrainian people. Moldova understands our sufferings and offers constant support - politically, humanitarily, and morally. The war started by the Russian Federation is unjustified and unprovoked. It is a war of conquest, of destroying a nation - an act that clearly takes on the traits of genocide. Attacks in recent months have massively targeted civilian infrastructure, energy and people's homes. It is a crime against humanity. The Kremlin hoped to occupy Ukraine in three days. What they did not understand is that they are facing not just an army, but an entire nation determined to resist. Our response has been clear and firm. You are aware of the United States' initiative to create conditions for dialogue. Ukraine accepted Washington's proposal for a ceasefire - clear proof of openness towards peace. However, in practice, Moscow ignores this signal and continues attacks with more intensity. Ukraine advocates for a just peace. This means, first of all, restoring the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Ukrainian state. Secondly, it means holding those who have committed war crimes accountable, according to international law. If this does not happen, not only will Ukraine suffer, but we will risk destabilizing the entire international order.

MOLDPRES: How do you see the role of Moldova in providing diplomatic and humanitarian support to Ukraine?

Paun Rohovei: Moldova is already fulfilling this role with dignity. It is more than a diplomatic position - it is proof of genuine partnership and sincere solidarity. Chisinau does everything in its power to support Ukraine, first of all politically, both bilaterally and internationally. In addition, a significant number of our citizens are currently in Moldova, where they are looked after, receive social assistance, and their children have access to education. Economic relations between our countries continue to develop, despite the war. We have joint projects and common interests. All these confirm a civilized partnership, based on mutual respect and real cooperation.

MOLDPRES: How does Ukraine view NATO's role in the region and  Moldova's relationship with the Alliance? Are there plans to strengthen common security at the borders of the two states?

Paun Rohovei: Ukraine decided, by the will of its people, to integrate into the North Atlantic Alliance. It is a strategic choice - we want solid security guarantees, and NATO provides this framework. Euro-Atlantic integration is one of the essential priorities of Ukrainian foreign policy. As for Moldova, only the authorities and the Moldovan people can decide its strategic directions. European integration is a priority for Moldova - and it is extremely important for us because we share the same vision. With regard to NATO, every nation has the right to decide its path. We, Ukraine, believe that a security umbrella is crucial for ensuring peace. And we want a stable, safe region, oriented towards the common European future.

MOLDPRES: According to the latest data, Moldova currently hosts around 130,000 Ukrainians, refugees from the war. What assistance does the Embassy provides them? What projects do you have regarding the integration of Ukrainian refugees into the society of Moldova?

Paun Rohovei: The Embassy of Ukraine in Moldova has activities directed towards supporting the rights of these citizens, in order to ensure their documentation and getting of passports and various documents. Everything related to ensuring the rights of our citizens who are abroad. I could talk a lot about this, but I want to say that we have a very good collaboration with the state Republic of Moldova and, in this context, I would highlight the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Education and Research. These ministries play a very important role; we are in permanent contact. We exchange information, participate in various initiatives and send joint addresses to solve emerging problems. I want to emphasize that we have extraordinary cooperation — the doors are always open, both on our side and from the competent institutions of Moldova, in order to find effective solutions to any problem that arises.

MOLDPRES: At the same time, I want to says that, in Moldova, there has always been and continues to exist a very important Ukrainian diaspora, always very active. How do you appreciate the role of the Ukrainians from Moldova in strengthening the relations between the two states?

Paun Rohovei: Like any citizen of Moldova, each representative of the local Ukrainian community can contribute to strengthening the relations between our states. For us, the Ukrainians of Moldova are, first of all, our compatriots, but also important partners. Therefore, we strive to pay attention to them and actively get involved in interaction with them, in order to identify the problems they face and resolve them through active cooperation with the Moldovan authorities. They are extraordinary people, who preserve their culture, who have the opportunity to preserve, develop and study their mother tongue. But, of course, there is the need and desire to do this. We have a very good connection with all Ukrainian associations of Moldova. Especially with the National Congress of Ukrainians, which, in addition to representing the Ukrainian minority in your country, has intense activity in supporting those who fled the war and were forced to stay here. We have planned and carried out several visits to the territory. For example, recently, we went to Edinet, where we visited an extraordinary school and had meetings with members of the Ukrainian community from northern Moldova — remarkable, involved and welcoming people.

MOLDPRES: You have been in the position of Ukrainian Ambassador since February 2025. How do you manage the challenges of a diplomatic mission in the context of the war?

Paun Rohovei: Yes, I was appointed as ambassador relatively recently, in February 2025. It is a short term, but enough to understand the challenges of the diplomatic mission, especially in conditions where Ukraine is a country at war, invaded by the Russian Federation. Diplomacy in such conditions differs from classical diplomacy. It is more intense, deeper, more active. We often say that we also have a 'diplomatic front'. We are obliged to be more operational, to respond promptly to requests and challenges, whether on a bilateral or international level. Diplomacy in wartime means great responsibility. We must adapt quickly, make effective decisions, and fulfill the tasks set by central authorities. In the context, our priority stays the protection and support of Ukrainian refugees. They are now on the agenda of all Ukrainian diplomatic missions abroad, including in relations with  Moldova. In the past, the issue of refugees was not a specific one in bilateral cooperation, but now it is a reality that involves us directly. Therefore, even if we were not prepared for some areas, we are learning on the go and succeeding — including with the support of the authorities and communities in host countries. It is a major task to ensure the accommodation of refugees. The war always brings unpredictable situations and diplomats must be able to adapt, to act quickly and effectively.

MOLDPRES: Studying your diplomatic activity, I noticed that this is not your first experience in Moldova — you have held positions at the embassy before. Still, now, from the ambassador's perspective, what impression does this country make on you?

Paun Rohovei: Firstly, the inner beauty of the people. We are very similar in tradition, culture and way of being. The greatest wealth of Moldova is its people — regardless of nationality or political option. They are people with a strong immunity to evil, with profound kindness. Many foreigners notice this. And I say it sincerely: Moldova impresses with the beautiful soul of its people.

MOLDPRES: Mr. Ambassador, thank you for this interview and I hope that this war ends as soon as possible. Let there be peace again, and Ukraine regain its territorial integrity.

Paun Rohovei: Thank you too. Taking this opportunity, I want to say that the citizens of Moldova deserve a dignified future. I am sure that wisdom and reason will lead them to the future they truly deserve: in the big European family, getting  decent conditions for prosperity, well-being and development.