Grigore Gafencu and Romania’s Quest to Reach Compromise Deals with its Revisionist Neighbours
Grigore Gafencu and Romania’s Quest to Reach Compromise Deals with its Revisionist Neighbours

Summary/Abstract: Following the Soviet invasion of Poland, Romania’s diplomacy became intensely strategic, driven by threats from Soviet expansionism and territorial ambitions of its neighbours, Hungary and Bulgaria. Under Foreign Minister Grigore Gafencu, Romania sought international support in London and Paris, but met the Western reluctance to offer security guarantees without unrealistic preconditions. This led Romania to cautiously involve Germany, seeking an arrangement to deter Soviet advances. Gafencu proposed compromises with Hungary and Bulgaria, offering territorial concessions in exchange for neutrality or support against the Soviet threat, but these efforts were hindered by German strategic priorities and the constraints of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact. Romania’s initial overtures to the Soviets were ignored by Germany, and after the Soviet setbacks in Finland, Romania abandoned this approach, attempting instead to negotiate with Hungary. However, Hungary’s rejection of Romanian concessions further complicated Romania’s diplomatic position. The influence of Western powers and threats from Germany and the Soviet Union shapedBalkan diplomatic strategies. Turkey aimed to consolidate regional ties to counter potential threats, highlighting complex interactions and territorial disputes, especially over Dobrogea. Romania’s pursuit of national security required a delicate balance of alliances, concessions, and strategic realignments amid shifting international dynamics. By mid-1940, Romania's vulnerability and the limitations of international support mechanisms were evident, setting the stage for further geopolitical upheavals in the region.

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