Photo: Sibiga, Telegram
Ukraine expects strong support from the international community in the event of new provocations by the Kremlin. This was stated by Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga after talks between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations on 16 May in Istanbul.
According to Sibiga, the meeting should not be perceived as a weakening of pressure on Russia. Despite the provocative statements made by the Russians, a humanitarian breakthrough was achieved – an agreement to exchange 1,000 Ukrainian prisoners.
“The Russian delegation had no real authority to discuss the ceasefire. This is yet another indication of the Kremlin’s unwillingness to find a genuine peaceful solution,” the minister stressed.
Sibiga also criticised Vladimir Putin’s attempts to present this meeting as a continuation of the 2022 talks. According to him, the situation has changed dramatically, and the current dialogue is a new stage of diplomacy, which should include new guarantees and responsibilities.
The foreign minister placed special emphasis on the role of the United States, in particular President Donald Trump, in shaping the future diplomatic strategy.
“We remain on a clear position: the return of citizens, peace and strengthening of defence. And Putin must stop avoiding direct dialogue with President Zelenskyy,” Sibiga said, calling for a meeting at the highest level.
