Zelensky: Ukrainian Military Engaged in Consultations on the Situation in the Strait of Hormuz

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on April 7, 2023, that Ukrainian military personnel are participating in consultations regarding the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic waterway has been blocked by Iran since the beginning of the war with the United States, raising concerns within the international community.

Zelensky emphasized that safe navigation is a global value, and Ukraine possesses experience in safeguarding maritime routes, particularly in the Black Sea. "It is essential for everyone in the world to appreciate this as well. Of course, the situation can change daily — and quite significantly, especially considering what is happening with Iran and the relations between Europe and America. But our interests are long-term — for all in Europe, primarily a security interest," the president stated.

He also reported that Ukraine has received inquiries from Asian countries and is actively working at the level of state leaders, foreign ministries, and other agencies to address this issue. It is worth noting that on April 5, Zelensky stated that Ukraine has experience in unblocking the food corridor in the Black Sea and is ready to share it with other nations.

However, the president underscored that Ukraine has already destroyed part of the Russian Black Sea Fleet and forced the enemy to retreat from the corridor. This indicates that Ukrainian military forces possess the necessary skills to address similar situations on the international stage.

On April 2, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha compared the actions of the Iranian authorities in the Strait of Hormuz to those of the Russian army in the Black Sea. He noted that the tactics of both countries are similar and emphasized that Ukraine is prepared to contribute to efforts aimed at unblocking the strait.

On April 7, the President of the United States issued an ultimatum, stating that Iran must open the Strait of Hormuz by 8:00 PM Eastern Time, which corresponds to 3:00 AM on April 8 in Kyiv. This statement sparked significant resonance within the international community, as the situation in the region remains tense.

In response to the ultimatum from Washington, Tehran declared that in the event of further U.S. strikes on Iranian infrastructure, "the gates of hell" would open for the United States and Israel. According to CNN, Tehran also indicated that it would fully open the Strait of Hormuz only after receiving compensation for the financial damages caused by the war.

On April 6, Axios reported that the United States and Iran, with the help of intermediaries, are discussing the terms of a potential 45-day ceasefire that could lead to a definitive end to the war. However, on the same day, Reuters, citing sources, reported that Iran rejected a proposal to conclude the war with the United States and Israel, under which Tehran would unblock the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for a ceasefire.