Ukraine Demands Russia’s Exclusion from OSCE over Principles Violations and Global Security Threats
At the recent OSCE summit in Helsinki, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Siberha delivered a clear and firm call for reforming the organization and reevaluating Russia’s role within it.
The event coincided with a symbolic date—when Ukrainians are again defending their sovereignty at the cost of blood—and the diplomat emphasized that Russia has egregiously violated all ten fundamental principles of the Helsinki Declaration, which forms the backbone of international security and cooperation.
Ukraine is urging the international community to initiate the process of expelling the aggressor country, arguing that Russia’s presence and influence within OSCE only undermine its integrity and credibility.
Siberha pointed out that Russia’s current role tarnishes the organization’s original purpose, as the Kremlin exploits OSCE for its own interests amidst the backdrop of Cold War logic, which contradicts contemporary security challenges.
He stressed that Russia bears responsibility for destabilizing European security architecture and that its membership in OSCE hampers efforts to restore trust and stability in the region.
The minister also highlighted the importance of acknowledging the responsibility of ordinary Russians in the ongoing crimes, including genocide and aggression against Ukraine, stating that silence or support for these acts constitutes complicity.
He called attention to the fact that a nation fueling conflict and occupying European territories has no moral right to block the functioning of international institutions.
Furthermore, he advocated for strengthened sanctions against Russia, especially targeting its oil exports, as only radical measures can halt its aggression.
According to Siberha, the Trump administration’s stance is crucial, as the US has shown readiness to impose even tougher sanctions, and the world watches to see if Washington will follow through on its commitments.
The Ukrainian minister expressed hope of ending the war within this year, criticizing Russia’s tactics of prolonging negotiations solely to gain more time and occupy new territories.
He concluded that this conflict is not only about Ukraine’s future but also about global stability, as the outcome will influence security worldwide and across Europe.
Siberha finished by emphasizing that victory in this fight will pave the way for restoring justice and international peace.