To achieve a just and lasting peace, it is time to intensify sanctions pressure on Russia and increase support for Ukraine, as this concerns the indivisible security of Ukraine, Europe, and the entire Euro-Atlantic community.

This was stated by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha on Tuesday, May 6, during his virtual address to the Global Ireland Summit in Dublin.

The Foreign Minister began his remarks by highlighting the negative global consequences of Russia’s aggression, including threats to global food and energy security, instability in Europe, the Indo-Pacific region, the Middle East, and beyond.

“This war is not only about Ukraine. It is a major global crisis, not just a Ukrainian or European issue. The outcome of this war will shape the new global security order,” the Minister emphasised.

Sybiha reminded participants that Ukraine is not an obstacle to peace. As early as March 11, Ukraine had unconditionally accepted a U.S. proposal for a full 30-day ceasefire. However, Russia has refused to accept this proposal, instead issuing additional demands or promoting temporary ceasefires for propaganda purposes, which it ultimately violates.

The Minister stressed that Russia must agree to a sustained ceasefire and to confidence-building measures, such as the return of forcibly deported children and prisoners of war, as prerequisites for launching a genuine peace process.

“We must increase pressure on Russia to say a clear ‘yes’ to an unconditional, full ceasefire in the air, at sea, and on land for at least 30 days,” Andrii Sybiha stated.

He called on Ireland and other international partners to jointly increase economic and military pressure on Moscow to compel it toward peace. In particular, he urged for strengthened EU sanctions targeting Russia’s banking sector, shadow fleet, liquefied natural gas, and other parts of the Russian economy, as well as a complete embargo on all Russian energy resources to ensure true energy independence for Europe.

Minister also outlined Ukraine’s added value to the European Union — in agriculture, defence industry, logistics, and more — expressing hope that Ukraine’s path to EU membership would be a priority under Ireland’s presidency of the Council of the EU next year.

He expressed gratitude for Ireland’s strong and comprehensive support from the very first days of Russia’s full-scale invasion:

“We are greatful for Ireland’s contribution in the form of non-lethal military aid and financial support: €250 million via the EU Peace Facility and €80 million for the procurement of non-lethal military equipment. Ireland has proven that it stands on the right side of history — and that neutrality does not mean indifference,” the Minister remarked.

In conclusion, Andrii Sybiha thanked Ireland for supporting efforts to achieve justice and hold Russian perpetrators accountable for the atrocities committed during Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. He emphasised that the informal EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Ukraine on May 9 will mark a key milestone in political efforts to launch a Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine:

“The time has come. Everything is ready to deliver justice.”