Sikorski: Russia's war against Ukraine extends far beyond Europe

Poland's Foreign Minister, Wojciech Sikorski, addressed a gathering of Visegrad Group foreign ministers in Bratislava, stating that Russia's war against Ukraine extends far beyond the continent. At the meeting, which also included Japan's foreign minister, Sikorski emphasized the interconnectedness of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific theaters, particularly in the context of military cooperation among Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran.

He reiterated that Russia's war against Ukraine poses the most significant threat to European security and the rules-based international order, with consequences that reach well beyond Europe. Sikorski stressed that continued support for Ukraine serves as an investment in confidence in the international order. The foreign ministers also discussed potential avenues to strengthen collaboration between Central European nations and Japan, highlighting sectors such as automotive industry, infrastructure, energy, science, and advanced technologies.

Sikorski expressed satisfaction with the resumption of active Visegrad Group activities, noting Poland's appreciation for the return of V4 cooperation, which had been somewhat stalled due to Hungary's shift towards European integration under former Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Sikorski praised Slovakia for hosting the meeting and wished it success in chairing the Visegrad Group.

The Visegrad Group, established in 1991, aims to foster regional cooperation and coordinate European integration. The most recent gathering of Visegrad foreign ministers occurred in March 2024, amid complications arising from divergent positions among participating governments, primarily concerning Russia's aggression against Ukraine and EU policy.