Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha has clearly outlined the country’s red lines in the peace negotiation process with Russia
In his speech before the Verkhovna Rada deputies, he emphasized that Kyiv will not accept restrictions on its internal and external policies, especially regarding Ukraine’s aspirations to join NATO and the protection of its sovereignty. This statement was made ahead of renewed efforts to intensify diplomatic dialogue and find a compromise solution to end the ongoing war, which has been ongoing for more than a year and causes significant damage to the country, human lives, and regional stability. During his address at the Verkhovna Rada session, Sybiha stressed that Ukraine will not sign a “peace at any cost,” and he outlined several of the most rigid and sensitive lines that remain inviolable under any possible negotiation scenarios. Most importantly, the Minister emphasized that Kyiv does not recognize any temporarily occupied territories under Russian control, nor their legitimacy. “We will not recognize any occupied regions by Russia, and this is an unchanging red line,” he declared. Another key aspect underscored by the Minister is the categorical refusal to limit the structure or size of the Ukrainian army, to reduce the defense industry, or to decrease international military aid coming from abroad. He noted that any compromises on this issue would threaten Ukraine’s ability to defend itself and preserve its independence. Regarding sovereignty, he highlighted that Ukraine is unlikely to agree to any political constraints on the country’s internal or external course, including its right to choose allies and alliances. “We remain unyielding in our pursuit to become a NATO member, and this path is non-negotiable for us. Although there is no full consensus among our allies on our accession, Kyiv continues to work persistently on this issue,” he stated. Despite all diplomatic and political difficulties, the Ukrainian minister emphasized that no other country, including Russia, has the right or ability to veto Ukraine’s choices. This statement should be viewed within the political context, as on the eve of these public declarations about red lines and principles of peaceful settlement in Ukraine, international diplomatic and political efforts have intensified. The United States, particularly under the administration of Donald Trump, has sought to accelerate negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow in an attempt to find a quick resolution to end the war. According to media reports, the U.S. side has prepared a so-called “final proposal” for conflict resolution, which includes some highly compromising and rather controversial conditions. Reports indicate that among the main ideas are recognition by Russia of control over Ukrainian Crimea, loosening sanctions, and potential easing of restrictions that Russia faces under international pressure. During negotiations in London involving Ukrainian and European diplomats, a number of proposals were made that could potentially alter Ukraine’s position on strategic and security issues. In light of this situation, experts and analysts reinforce the view that Ukrainian authorities remain steadfast in defending their most important interests and sovereignty. Civil society and the political class await further clarifications and decisions regarding possible diplomatic steps. Meanwhile, the question of the price of peace for Ukraine remains open, as any concessions could impact the country’s security, territorial integrity, and strategic decisions regarding NATO membership. Thus, the Ukrainian government under Andriy Sybiha’s leadership demonstrates a clear course—an independent and sovereign state that will not compromise on issues of territorial integrity and security. The red lines established in Kyiv remain inviolable and form the basis for any negotiation scenarios—because for Ukraine, the values of independence, sovereignty, and the right to choose alliances are fundamental in the fight for its future.