Ukraine ‘Has Cards’ in Peace Talks, Kyiv Says

Ukraine’s foreign minister also said Ukraine sees a chance to advance EU accession after the setback of pro-Kremlin Hungarian leader Orban in recent elections. Make us preferred on Google Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha speaks to the press as he arrives ahead of extended Weimar talks on European defence and Ukraine at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (Quai d'Orsay) in Paris, on February 12, 2025. (Photo by Ian LANGSDON / AFP) Content Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Flip Make us preferred on Google Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha said he hopes the setback of Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government in Hungary could give Kyiv a chance to accelerate its path toward EU membership. Speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), Sybiha said that after years of what he described as “provocations” by Orban’s government, Ukraine now has an opportunity to move forward on its European integration, including opening six negotiation clusters, unlocking a €90 billion ($103 billion) EU loan and strengthening the bloc’s 20th sanctions package against Russia. Follow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official . “The failure of anti-Ukrainian rhetoric during the elections in Hungary sent a signal to similar political forces in other countries that such rhetoric does not work,” Sybiha said. He also responded to remarks by US President Donald Trump , who repeatedly said Ukraine “does not have the cards” in peace talks with Russia, insisting Kyiv does have leverage. “Our assessment, and I am confident that the most difficult period of our relations or our diplomatic bilateral track [with the United States] is behind us. We managed to regulate this direction properly, very pragmatically, with respect for each other’s positions, and Ukraine really has cards. This is the reality,” Sybiha said . He reiterated that Ukraine welcomes US efforts to advance a just and comprehensive peace. “My personal assessment is that without the United States, without the support of President Trump, it is unrealistic to achieve a just and comprehensive peace. This is unrealistic. Therefore, we need US involvement, and we welcome their peace efforts,” he said. Other Topics of Interest Oil Prices Fall on Ceasefire Hopes and Potential US-Iran Talks Oil prices declined after a reported ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon and signals of possible US-Iran talks, though uncertainties remain. At the same time, Sybiha said Ukraine would not accept Russia’s demand to withdraw its troops from the Donbas, calling it an unworkable ultimatum. “We have a 20-point plan. Yes, several points, more sensitive points, remain unagreed. And it is clear how Ukraine could accept this demand or ultimatum regarding the withdrawal of our troops from the Donbas? This is impossible,” he said. According to Sybiha, Russia is also demanding that Ukraine recognize its jurisdiction over occupied territories, including the use of Russian currency and symbols. He added that Ukraine is ready for an unconditional ceasefire with monitoring and has a corresponding plan in place, though some key issues remain unresolved. Speaking to the Financial Times last Friday, Vadym Skibitsky, deputy head of the Ukrainian military’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), said Moscow is intensifying its offensives and aims to capture the entirety of the Donbas region by September. Kyiv Post is Ukraine’s first and oldest English news organization since 1995. Its international market reach of 97% outside of Ukraine makes it truly Ukraine’s Global – and most reliable – Voice.