On Wednesday, November 13, during his visit to Belgium, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha held bilateral talks with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Brussels.

The diplomats focused their talks on Ukraine's defense capabilities, strengthening its air shield ahead of winter, the need for long-range weapons for the Defense Forces, Ukraine's Euro-Atlantic integration, and efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace.

Andrii Sybiha briefed the U.S. Secretary of State on the consequences of Russia's massive night attack on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. The Minister noted that 96 drones and missiles, including ballistic ones, were used during the attack.

“The Russians have once again attacked innocent people, children, entire families, while they were peacefully sleeping in their homes. They are committing war crimes, attacking civilians and infrastructure day and night. We have to stop the aggressor by force of arms, sanctions, and diplomacy,” he said.

The Foreign Minister emphasized that the defense of Ukraine cannot be suspended or postponed, as Russia is bombing Ukraine's critical infrastructure, energy system, ports, hospitals, and schools every day. The Minister added that Ukraine needs to strengthen its defense to protect people right now, so partners should speed up all crucial decisions.

In this context, Andrii Sybiha said that a critical moment has come not only for Ukraine but also for other regions of the world. According to the Minister, the future of transatlantic and global security is currently being decided in Ukraine.

“Russia is using Iranian drones, North Korean ballistic missiles, and troops to attack Ukraine. In response, the Kremlin is providing assistance to these regimes. This is how this war undermines security in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. It's all connected,” he said.

The Ukrainian diplomat emphasized that to ensure long-term peace and stability in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the allies must force Russia to stop its aggression. He added that the partners can achieve a just peace only through unity and strength.

“Appeasement will not work. Only force will work,” the Minister emphasized.

The Parties also coordinated further steps after the U.S. presidential election. Andrii Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine has always appreciated Washington's strong bipartisan support and maintains contact with both parties. According to the Minister, the Ukrainian side is cooperating with both the newly elected President and his team, as well as with the current administration, which is preparing to leave office.

Andrii Sybiha expressed his sincere gratitude to Antony Blinken for the unprecedented assistance the United States provided to the Ukrainian people and for his personal efforts to mobilize the world in support of Ukraine.

The Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of the U.S. plans to disburse all previously approved military assistance funds in the coming weeks and stressed the crucial importance of America's leadership in restoring a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine. The Minister expressed confidence in continued U.S. support and joint decisive steps.