Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said he held a “substantial meeting” with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte after arriving in Helsingborg, where he briefed him on what Kyiv described as growing threats to Ukraine and wider Europe from the direction of Belarus.
“I informed the Secretary General about Russia’s increased threats to Ukraine and wider Europe from the direction of Belarus,” Sybiha wrote on X.
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He said Ukraine needed “strong collective deterrence” and steps to prevent Moscow and Minsk from expanding aggression, as NATO foreign ministers gathered in Sweden for ministerial talks.
At the informal NATO-Ukraine Council meeting, Sybiha said pressure on Moscow was mounting and described the war as being at a “pivotal moment.”
“We are at a pivotal moment in the war. Ukraine holds the line, and Russia’s manpower is no longer a decisive advantage,” he wrote.
The foreign minister said efforts to achieve peace should focus on three elements: diplomacy, pressure and strength. He called for a renewed push in peace efforts, while increasing what he described as “special long-range sanctions” and other leverage against Russia.
Sybiha said Ukraine should no longer be seen only as an aid recipient.
“Ukraine is no longer just asking for donations; we are a security contributor, donor, and partner ready to share our expertise with allies,” he said.
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Many NATO Members ‘Not Spending Enough’ to Support Ukraine: NATO Chief
NATO chief Mark Rutte said some alliance members are not contributing enough to Ukraine’s defense against Russia, with aid unevenly distributed. He proposed dedicating 0.25% of GDP to Ukraine, but acknowledged it lacks unanimous support, while Nordic, Baltic, and some other states contribute above average.
The foreign minister urged NATO members to increase defense spending and contribute more to Ukraine’s defense.
“Increased defense spending is a guarantee of peace, and I encourage every NATO member to contribute to the defense of Ukraine. This investment will bring the greatest peace dividend of our lifetime,” Sybiha wrote.