Sybiha calls on OSCE to ensure principle of indivisible peace
Ukraine expects the OSCE to play a certain role in the implementation of the Peace Formula, as well as to focus on ensuring the principle of indivisible peace in general.
This was stated by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha during the plenary session of the OSCE Ministerial Council, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.
"In the OSCE, we are used to talking about indivisible security. But I propose to talk about indivisible peace. The restoration of a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace, as well as a strong deterrent against the Russian threat will contribute to this indivisibility of peace. And this is exactly what the Peace Formula proposes. The OSCE must play a role in the implementation of the Peace Formula," the head of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said.
He emphasized that the very participation of the Russian Federation in the OSCE poses a threat to cooperation in Europe.
"Russia is not a partner, it is the biggest threat to our common security. Russia’s participation in the OSCE is a threat to cooperation in Europe. And it will remain so. Russia is deepening cooperation with Iran and North Korea, interfering in Georgia, Moldova, the Western Balkans, and other states, and waging a hybrid war against Europe. We therefore welcome the fact that resilience will be in the focus of the incoming Chair of Finland," said Sybiha.
The minister also expressed his expectation that the new heads of the OSCE institutions and Secretariat "will show strong leadership in defending its principles, further isolating Russia and using all existing OSCE tools to address and document the crimes committed by the Kremlin regime."
"There will be no peace without justice. As long as Russia violates OSCE principles and commitments, this Organization should remain a platform for Russia’s accountability. This especially matters for three OSCE colleagues, Maksym Petrov, Vadym Golda and Dmytro Shabanov, who have been in Russia’s illegal custody for almost three years. Russia holds OSCE hostage just as it holds these people hostage," the Minister stressed.
He thanked the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malta, Ian Borg, and his team for successfully leading the Organization throughout the year, and wished his Finnish colleague, Elina Valtonen, success in 2025, when Finland takes the helm.
"After joining NATO, Finland itself manifests the freedom of choice. This is what the people of Ukraine are fighting for. The forthcoming 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act must be an anniversary of fulfilled commitments, not unfulfilled expectations. Together we must make it a success," said Sybiha.
Wrapping up his speech, the Ukrainian Foreign Minister addressed Russian Minister Sergei Lavrov, who was present at the meeting.
"Ukraine continues to fight for its right to exist. And the war criminal at this table must know: Ukraine will win this right and justice will prevail.," Sibiga said.
As Ukrinform reported earlier, a two-day OSCE Ministerial Council has kicked off in Malta. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is also attending the event.
Photo: OSCE/Malta Foreign Ministry