On 9–10 November, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha visited Paris at the invitation of French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot to attend the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

As part of the meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs took part in the G7+Ukraine session. Andrii Sybiha thanked his French counterpart for making a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine one of the key priorities of France’s G7 Presidency.

During the discussion, the Ukrainian side focused on Ukraine’s most urgent needs, including further strengthening its air defence, expanding energy assistance and meeting Ukraine’s financial needs. Particular attention was also paid to the need to step up sanctions pressure on Russia, including by imposing additional restrictions on its shadow fleet and introducing visa restrictions for Russian nationals.

“I focused on the next steps to strengthen Ukraine’s defence and create conditions for progress in the peace process. I briefed partners on Russia’s escalatory moves and highlighted the humanitarian mission in Oleshky,” the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine noted.

Diplomatic efforts aimed at ending Russian aggression, as well as prospects for a further peaceful settlement, featured prominently in the discussions.

“We should use this momentum to advance efforts towards a full ceasefire, as well as de-escalation steps and confidence-building measures,” the Minister stressed.

The parties also discussed global food security and ensuring freedom of navigation in the Black Sea.

In addition, the Minister of Foreign Affairs drew attention to Russia’s use of international sporting competitions to whitewash its war crimes. Ukraine opposes any easing of sports sanctions and the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in major international sporting events.

“We paid particular attention to Russia’s efforts to whitewash its war crimes through international sporting competitions. I stressed that any easing of sports sanctions is unacceptable and immoral while Russia’s war of aggression continues,” Andrii Sybiha emphasised.

Following the discussion, Ukraine’s top diplomat underscored the importance of maintaining G7 unity and continuing coordinated support for Ukraine.

“I emphasised that continued G7 unity and decisive action in support of Ukraine remain essential to strengthen our position and compel Russia to end its war of aggression,” the Minister noted.