Sibiga announced a plan to put pressure on Russia / Collage by Channel 24 (Photo by Getty Images)
Ukraine and the European Union have enough leverage to change the course of the war and bring its end closer. Now is the time to act more decisively and use the available leverage.
This was stated by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga during an informal meeting of the heads of foreign ministries of EU countries in Cyprus, writes “European Pravda”.
What statement did Sibiga make?
During an informal meeting in the “Hymns” format in Limassol, Andriy Sybiga emphasized the need for more active European action in cooperation with international partners.
Ukraine has the cards. Europe has the cards. We have a strong position. It is time to play it. As the dynamics of the war change and Ukraine’s asymmetric strategy bears fruit, Europe must act decisively and bring peace closer now – as a complement to the main negotiating track led by the United States,
– said the minister.
He stressed that Europe must move on to concrete steps that can affect the situation on the front and in the humanitarian sphere. According to him, these are decisions that do not require postponement.
“We do not need to start by choosing a person or group to lead this effort. We need to clearly define the mandate – and it should represent the single voice of Europe. Europe has the leverage to achieve tangible results – primarily sanctions and frozen Russian assets,” Sibiga emphasized.
The Minister also outlined the priority steps that, in his opinion, should be implemented by international partners. Among them:
- limiting attacks on civilian infrastructure,
- humanitarian initiatives
- protection of critical facilities.
“Partners should start with concrete and realistic steps: a ceasefire regarding airports, seaports, the return of civilian hostages, the demilitarization of the Zaporizhzhia NPP, the creation of a humanitarian corridor from occupied Oleshki in the Kherson region, where people have been without food, water, and medicine for weeks,” the Ukrainian Foreign Minister noted.
The minister also called on the European Union in June to open all negotiation clusters for Ukraine on its path to EU membership, calling this an important political signal of support.
What actions of Russia does all of Europe fear?
EU countries are increasingly discussing the risks of Russia's possible expansion of its war beyond Ukraine, amid the protracted conflict and Russian military losses. Concern is growing in European capitals about a potential Russian attempt to increase pressure on NATO countries, particularly the Baltics.
At the same time, intelligence and military officials emphasize that there are currently no direct signs of Russia preparing to attack the Alliance. Analysts suggest that the Kremlin may resort to hybrid actions or limited provocations to test NATO unity and the West's reaction.
According to experts, further escalation will depend on Russia's resource situation and the political situation within the country, including possible decisions regarding mobilization. It is also believed in Europe that Moscow continues to view the EU as a strategic opponent due to its support for Ukraine.
Despite this, Western officials emphasize that there is currently no confirmation of preparations for specific military operations outside Ukraine, and all assessments are based on scenario analysis and potential risks.