Sybiha to EU: this week must be week of strength, mobilization — peace through strength, not concessions

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha declared that the upcoming week should be characterized by strength and mobilization in order to achieve peace, rather than through concessions. Upon arriving at the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Luxembourg, he urged EU member states to demonstrate firmness and take decisive action to put an end to Russia's aggression in Ukraine.

Sybiha emphasized that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is a strong leader capable of overcoming challenges with dignity. He stressed that Europe must take its future into its own hands, speak with one voice, and restore peace, particularly in the face of Russia's imminent threat at Ukraine's doorstep. Sybiha pointed to the European Union's ability to leverage and pressure Russia by using frozen Russian assets as leverage to compel Russia to cease the war.

He noted that there are reservations on this issue and that the Ukrainian side is prepared to discuss them in terms of shared responsibility rather than placing the burden solely on Belgium. Sybiha further highlighted the importance of protecting Ukraine's skies and energy infrastructure, including the readiness for an energy truce and mutual agreements.

He expressed hope that the next negotiating clusters for Ukraine's EU membership would be opened and stressed the necessity of Ukraine providing updates on its soldiers' needs and the state of peace efforts. Sybiha maintained that Russia is banking on winter, and Europe must bet on Ukraine, as Russia only understands the language of strength. The stronger the pressure on the aggressor, the more secure both Ukraine and Europe will be.