On Wednesday, 20 November, during visit to Austria Foreign Minister of Ukrainian Andrii Sybiha held bilateral talks with Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg in Vienna.

Andrii Sybiha said that Russia continues escalating the war, in particular by involving North Korean troops. According to him, Moscow's aggressive actions go far beyond the battlefield, particularly through the use of energy as a weapon. The Minister noted that Austria had recently experienced this and emphasized that the allies' common task is to counter Russian pressure.

The Foreign Minister underlined that changes in the nuclear doctrine and Russia's recent threats should be considered as a blackmail.

"Russia has already used this tactic many times to intimidate Ukraine, Europe and the world. We must remain firm and not give in to intimidation," he said.

The Foreign Minister emphasized that Austria and Ukraine were united in defending international law and restoring its strength. He thanked Austria for its unwavering support of the Peace Formula and added that Europe needed a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.

Andrii Sybiha also expressed gratitude to Minister Schallenberg for Austria's financial and humanitarian support.

"I thank Austria for its solidarity as well as humanitarian, financial and energy assistance. I appreciate the decision to allocate 2 million euro for the “Grain from Ukraine” program. We will continue to develop our bilateral cooperation," he said.

The Foreign Minister informed his counterpart about Russia's strikes on Ukraine's energy system, including the recent massive attack that also targeted nuclear power facilities.

"This strike was Putin's real response to all those who have recently visited him or spoken to him on the phone. Putin has made it clear: he wants war and continues to speak the language of ultimatums. We must force him to peace, not ask him," the Minister emphasized.

In the context of Russia's terror against Ukraine's energy system Andrii Sybiha expressed gratitude for Austria's decision to provide 5 million euro to restore Ukraine's energy infrastructure and hopes for its prompt implementation.

He added that the Ukrainian side also valued additional 3 million euro provided by Austria for humanitarian aid to displaced persons through the Red Cross, UNICEF and other international humanitarian organizations.

The Foreign Minister expressed special gratitude to Austria for supporting Ukraine's cultural diplomacy. During the meeting, the ministers discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in this area.

The sides paid special attention to the development of trade and cooperation between Ukrainian and Austrian businesses. Andrii Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine would welcome the participation of Austrian companies in the recovery and reconstruction projects.

The Foreign Minister wished Austria successful coalition negotiations and expressed hope that the next government would continue a constructive dialogue for the benefit of the Ukrainian and Austrian peoples.