Instead of proposing premature peace talks with Russia, which does not seek a peace process, the goal of partners should be a victory for Ukraine, which will bring a sustainable and just peace to the European continent, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said.
“We need a victory, not a draw. If we allow Russia to take a pause now, Putin will create a frozen conflict in the middle of Europe, a giant time bomb that will be ready to explode every second. It would be a strategic mistake for Europe to pursue such a goal. I caution Ukraine’s partners: do not offer us compromises on conscience, territorial integrity or sovereignty. Because it will be your compromises with your own security,” he said in a video address to the participants of the Pan-European Union jubilee congress, which is held on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the organization in Vienna.
According to Kuleba, no country in the world strives for peace as much as Ukraine, but “wars like this one must end with the victory of good over evil.
He called on partners to work together to achieve Ukraine’s victory goals.
“We should not be subjected to fear and blackmail. Every time we Europeans have remained firm, principled, united and strong, Putin has always backed down. Any sign of weakness is seen by Russia as an invitation to further terror and atrocities. That is why support for Ukraine must continue and intensify, and no retreat from the sanctions pressure on Russia is acceptable,” the minister stressed.
Kuleba noted that now is the time for partners to set a goal of victory for Ukraine and work to achieve it, instead of looking for premature peace agreements with Russia, because Moscow has not changed its ultimative tone and uses statements about alleged readiness for negotiations only as a cover for continued aggression. .
“Real peace will be brought by a Ukrainian victory. This goal is quite achievable, as proved by the Kharkov and Kherson operations this fall. A Ukrainian victory would also be a victory for Europe and the West. It will renew peace and security on our continent for decades,” he said.
The minister stressed that the support of international partners must continue.
“This includes defense support, further isolation of Russia, financial support, urgent assistance in rebuilding our energy system damaged by Russian strikes. I remind you that aid to Ukraine is not charity. By helping us, European partners are helping themselves, contributing to Europe’s long-term security and stability,” the minister concluded.
