Ukraine’s ambassador says the country is ready to end the war but only on terms of justice and respect for international law, rejecting territorial concessions.
KUALA LUMPUR: Ukraine has reiterated its readiness to end the war at any time, but only based on justice, accountability and respect for international law. The statement was made as the country marked four years since the invasion during a solidarity event.
Ukraine’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Dr Hennadii Nadolenko, said the conflict remained existential for Ukraine. He stressed that Kyiv would never agree to surrender any part of its territory despite mounting casualties and prolonged fighting.
Nadolenko said Ukraine’s position in negotiations was clear. Proposals to cede territory, particularly in the Donbas region, were unacceptable to the Ukrainian leadership and people.
“This war is not just about land. It is about justice, sovereignty and the future of international law,” he said during a press conference. He added that more than 70% of Ukrainians opposed giving up territory, even to secure peace.
He also highlighted Ukraine’s growing self-reliance in defence. Domestic production of ammunition and drones had increased more than tenfold and now covered over 60% of the country’s military needs.
Responding to a question on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s call for Ukraine to join the European Union as early as 2027, the EU Ambassador to Malaysia, Rafael Daerr, said Ukraine’s accession process was being accelerated politically. He noted it still had to meet extensive technical and regulatory requirements.
Daerr said that joining the EU was not merely a political statement. Membership involved becoming part of the single market and complying fully with EU standards, including regulatory, security and phytosanitary rules.
“We have significantly accelerated this in the case of Ukraine because there is a mutual wish to move as quickly as possible, but it remains far more than just a political statement,” he said.
Daerr added that there can be no peace arrangement without Ukraine’s consent. He stated that it must be credible and sustainable, adding that the EU and NATO were defensive alliances.
Germany’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Silke Riecken-Daerr, said NATO and the EU have been careful not to be drawn into the war as parties to the conflict. She said they continue to support countries defending their sovereignty.
She noted that the EU and its member states have provided €200 billion in support to Ukraine since 2022. The event was organised by the Delegation of the European Union to Malaysia together with several embassies.
A month-long public exhibition will be held at Level 3, GMBB Mall, Bukit Bintang, from Feb 27 to March 27. The exhibition will feature various cultural and documentary projects presented by the participating embassies.
The Sun Malaysia
