On September 24, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Olexandr Mischenko delivered a speech online during the discussion event “Ukraine in Times of Geopolitical Turbulence” organized by the Ukrainian-Austrian Association. The event took place in the ceremonial hall of Vienna City Hall.

The Deputy Minister expressed gratitude to Austria for providing humanitarian and financial assistance, sheltering Ukrainian citizens, as well as supporting Ukraine on its path towards membership in the European Union. The Ukrainian diplomat highly valued Austria’s accession to the Joint Statement of Ukraine, the EU and 39 states in support of a just peace, which was presented at a joint event at the UN Headquarters on September 23, 2025, by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha and EU High Representative Kaja Kallas.

Olexandr Mischenko emphasized that Ukraine’s aspiration for peace remains fundamental; however, peace cannot be based on illusions or concessions to the aggressor. The war unleashed by Russia is not only a challenge for Ukraine, but also for the entire system of international security, as Russian aggression recognizes no borders.

“Today, Ukraine stands as Europe’s shield, and support for our state is not charity but a strategic investment in the security of the entire region,” the Ukrainian diplomat stressed.

He underlined that every air defense system supplied to Ukraine and every new package of sanctions weakens the aggressor and contributes to preserving stability in Europe.

The Deputy Minister also highlighted that Ukraine is not only in need of support but also possesses significant expertise it is ready to share, particularly in the fields of unmanned systems, electronic warfare, and cybersecurity.

Olexandr Mischenko further stressed the importance of Ukraine’s integration into the European Union, which also serves as an element of long-term security guarantees for the entire European space. Ukraine’s EU membership will mean a stronger and more united Europe — without the “grey zones” that Moscow could exploit for destabilization. He called on international partners to unite their efforts against any future attempts by Russia to undermine international law.

In conclusion, the Deputy Minister emphasized that peace can only be restored through unity and strength, and that supporting Ukraine is key to making peace a reality both on Ukrainian soil and across Europe.