Eu Day Light

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha received in Kyiv a delegation of members of the House of Representatives of Japan’s National Diet, led by Itsunori Onodera.

Sybiha noted that the visit took place at a time when Russia had intensified missile and drone attacks on Ukraine, saying, “The delegation did not postpone its visit and came to Kyiv as planned. This is a strong demonstration of courage and solidarity with the Ukrainian people.”

Sybiha said regional and global security were discussed during the meeting and drew attention to growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. He said, “Russia’s increasing military cooperation with North Korea, including the involvement of North Korean troops in the war against Ukraine, shows how closely connected the security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific has become. What happens in one region has direct consequences for the other.”

Sybiha said he briefed the delegation on the situation at the front and Ukraine’s ongoing peace efforts, adding that pressure on Russia should be increased, sanctions circumvention should be prevented and the use of frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s benefit should be advanced.

Addressing the situation in the Black Sea, Sybiha said Russia was trying to obstruct navigation and undermine maritime security. He said, “Restoring safe and free navigation, which is vital for global food security and international trade, requires coordinated international efforts.”

Sybiha expressed satisfaction with Japan’s continued support for Ukraine, saying, “We greatly value our partnership and are committed to developing it further.”