Delay in negotiations due to Middle East conflict exists, but we expect visit of American negotiating group to Ukraine - Sybiha
Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha has emphasized the importance of continuing peace negotiations and confirmed that Ukraine awaits a visit from the American negotiating team.
"Yes, it can be said that we are ‘stuck’ in our peace efforts, unfortunately. So in any case, we need to continue these efforts to put an end to this war. This is in our interests," Sybiha said during the ADF-Talks public discussion at the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday.
The minister added that he personally believes "we can achieve tangible results primarily through diplomatic efforts."
"Due to the situation in the Middle East, we likely have a delay in peace negotiations. But we are in constant contact," Sybiha emphasized.
He stressed that the negotiating groups of Ukraine and the US are in constant contact.
"We are waiting for the visit of the American negotiating group to Ukraine to discuss how we should proceed," the Foreign Minister stated.
However, in any case, as Sybiha added, it is necessary to simultaneously exert pressure on Russia and weaken it.
"No illusions. No vain hopes. Only decisive steps. Putin’s regime must realize the consequences of refusing a constructive position. As I have already noted, we are ready for a ceasefire," Sybiha emphasized.
He stressed that Kremlin leader "Putin must recognize that he will never achieve his goals on the battlefield."
On April 14, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the date for the visit to Kyiv by representatives of the US President, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, remains unknown. He added that the United States is currently still focused on the war with Iran.
As reported, on April 16-18, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha is visiting the Republic of Türkiye, where he is participating in the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum at the invitation of his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan.
