Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha has reaffirmed that Ukraine’s negotiating position prioritises national interests, with no compromises on its territory, sovereignty, or security. Speaking during the Geopolitical Challenges and Prospects 2025 discussion, part of LB.ua and EFI Group’s New Country project, Sybiha emphasised that the state’s ultimate goal is achieving a comprehensive, sustainable, and just peace.
“There are no negotiations now,” Sybiha noted, adding that Ukraine’s diplomatic track is closely tied to developments on the battlefield. “These two elements complement each other,” he said.
The minister pointed out that during early negotiations after Russia’s full-scale invasion, Moscow issued surrender ultimatums to Ukraine. Russia’s position has not shifted, necessitating a strategy to force it to negotiate and to increase the cost of its aggression.
Key elements of Ukraine’s approach include:
- NATO membership invitations.
- Deterrence measures to strengthen Ukraine’s battlefield position.
- Removing restrictions on the use of long-range weapons.
- Comprehensive sustainability, including economic, social, humanitarian, and macro-financial support.
Sybiha highlighted the success of the first Peace Summit, where like-minded nations reaffirmed support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. While the summit was not a negotiation platform, it helped consolidate a shared stance among allies.
Looking ahead, Sybiha said Ukraine is prepared to invite Russian representatives to the second Peace Summit, building on the progress made at the first summit and advancing the steps outlined in Ukraine’s peace formula.
Read the full interview with the Foreign Minister on LB.ua this Friday.