Sybiha Meets Japanese Parliamentary Delegation To Discuss Pressure On Russia And Defense Cooperation

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha met with a Japanese parliamentary delegation from the House of Representatives to discuss bolstering international pressure on Russia and expanding security and defense cooperation between Kyiv and Tokyo. Sybiha expressed gratitude to the Japanese lawmakers for visiting Kyiv in the face of Russia's escalating missile and drone attacks against Ukraine, describing their decision to proceed with the trip as a show of solidarity with Ukraine's people.

"I deeply appreciate this visit," Sybiha stated. The delegation, led by former Japanese defense minister Itsunori Onodera, also thanked Japan for its substantial support since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, including financial, humanitarian, and technical assistance that have bolstered Ukraine's resilience and recovery efforts.

The meeting touched on regional and global security concerns, with Sybiha pointing out that Russia's increasing military ties with North Korea, including deploying North Korean troops to Russia's war against Ukraine, highlights the interconnectedness of European and Indo-Pacific security. Discussions also centered on deepening cooperation in security and defense sectors, with Sybiha indicating Ukraine's readiness to engage in mutually beneficial collaboration with Japan by leveraging both countries' strengths.

Sybiha provided the Japanese delegation with an update on battlefield developments and Ukraine's diplomatic efforts towards a just and lasting peace, while also emphasizing the importance of increasing international pressure on Russia, combating sanctions evasion, and utilizing frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's benefit. The security situation in the Black Sea was highlighted as particularly critical, with Russia's threats to maritime navigation and regional security requiring coordinated international responses to ensure global food security and international trade.

Sybiha expressed deep appreciation for Japan's support for Ukraine, reiterating their commitment to further strengthening their partnership.