On Monday, November 18, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha took part online in a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, where he expressed gratitude to European partners for their support.

“We must remain steadfast. No easing of russia’s international isolation. No appeasement of the aggressor. Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine,” the Minister said.

The Foreign Minister also urged the allies to resolutely resist any attempts to equate the aggressor – russia – with Ukraine, which is defending itself from aggression.

Andrii Sybiha noted that a comprehensive, just and lasting peace can only be achieved through force and timely decisions. Peace through force means inviting Ukraine to NATO membership, lifting restrictions on long-range strikes, allowing neighboring countries to shoot down russian missiles and drones in Ukrainian skies, strengthening Ukraine’s air shield, and tightening sanctions against russia and its allies.

The head of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry called for tougher sanctions against the russian “shadow fleet”, which brings russia profits for waging war.

“To stop russia, we must deprive its military machine of fuel – oil revenues,” he stressed.

The minister informed his colleagues about the intensification of russian attacks on Ukrainian port and agricultural infrastructure, which is aimed at weakening the Ukrainian economy.

In this context, the head of the Foreign Ministry called on partners to explore the possibility of developing special insurance programs for ships and terminals, which will become a direct and effective way to strengthen the Ukrainian economy and resilience.

Andrii Sybiha expressed special gratitude to Denmark for becoming the first country to start purchasing weapons for the Defense Forces directly in Ukraine. He added that in a matter of months the “Danish model” managed to show its effectiveness and create a multiplier effect: weapons, jobs, taxes, technologies.

“Sweden and Norway have recently followed Denmark’s example. We call on EU countries to join these efforts and invest in our defense industry. We can start now by creating joint ventures, investing in repair hubs and other projects,” the Minister noted.

The Foreign Minister stated that Ukraine is already making its contribution to European security, and as part of the EU, it will make it even stronger.

The Minister stressed the importance of further progress towards Ukraine’s accession to the EU. He recalled that our state is fulfilling its obligations and remains committed to implementing reforms and transformations.

The Foreign Minister called on European colleagues to mark 1,000 days of Ukraine’s resistance to full-scale russian aggression by announcing new packages of military and energy assistance, as well as a clear message to the aggressor: European unity is unwavering, and expectations of concessions or appeasement are futile.

“Ukraine is and should remain a factor of unity. Our struggle is your struggle. Our victory will be your victory,” the Minister concluded.