Ankara: Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on Monday called on the EU to strengthen his country and Europe’s defense capabilities ‘as soon as possible.’
According to Anadolu Agency, Sybiha addressed the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting via videoconference, emphasizing the urgency of arming Ukraine and Europe to prevent Russia from initiating another major conflict. He urged for swift and effective measures to enhance defense capabilities, highlighting the necessity for rapid European decision-making.
Sybiha acknowledged the importance of several EU initiatives aimed at bolstering European defense. He underscored the significance of the ReArm Europe plan by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the military support initiative led by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. He also expressed hope for active participation from Germany’s new leadership.
On the subject of Ukraine’s accession to the EU, Sybiha called for an expedited political process, particularly the removal of barriers to opening the first cluster. He linked Ukraine’s EU membership to peace efforts and thanked the bloc for its sanctions policy against Russia. He advocated for continued sanctions to pressure Russia into negotiations, suggesting sanctions should be integral to European security policy.
Regarding a 30-day ceasefire proposal by Washington, Sybiha emphasized the need for Russia to respond positively and unconditionally. He confirmed Ukraine’s unconditional acceptance and readiness for negotiations, demonstrated by the formation of a negotiating team.
The US and Ukrainian officials recently met in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to discuss potential peace arrangements. Following the meeting, a joint statement indicated Kyiv’s willingness to agree to the US-proposed ceasefire. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated his agreement to end hostilities, conditional on achieving long-term peace and addressing the crisis’s root causes.