The official portal of Unian has published the text of a joint communique regarding the foundations of peace established after a crucial summit in Switzerland. This document not only outlines key aspects for restoring stability in Ukraine but also casts doubt on the future plans of the Russian Federation regarding the conflict.
One of the main theses of this communique emphasizes the necessity of Ukraine’s full sovereign control over the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. This is a significant demand, taking into account the importance of nuclear security in the region and international obligations. Additionally, the document highlights the need to restore access to the seaports in the Black and Azov Seas, which has been a contentious issue during the conflict in recent years. The final key point of the communique is the exchange of prisoners of war and the return of Ukrainian citizens from the territories under Ukrainian control.
It’s worth noting that Ukraine essentially independently unblocked the ports in the Black Sea by destroying almost a third of the entire Black Sea fleet of the Russian Federation. However, while international support would be warranted, the summit concluded without significantly shortening the path to peace.
Commenting on this document, President Volodymyr Zelensky underscored the necessity of involving all sides of the conflict in dialogue. “We believe that achieving peace requires engagement and dialogue among all parties. Therefore, we have decided to take concrete measures in the aforementioned areas in the future, with the further involvement of representatives from all sides,” emphasized the president. We are ready to sit down at the negotiation table with Russia as early as tomorrow, provided they withdraw their troops from Ukrainian territory.
It is noteworthy that the summit in Switzerland was attended by 92 countries and eight intergovernmental organizations, including the OSCE, the Council of Europe, and the European Parliament. Some countries, including Thailand, India, Saudi Arabia, and others, did not support the declaration. This indicates the complexity of the international context and differences in approaches to resolving the conflict. Clearly, for these countries, their ties with the aggressor country and the benefits derived from this cooperation are more important than international law and the lives of people attacked by Russian forces.
Nevertheless, the primary goal remains ensuring peace for all parties to the conflict, regardless of their geographical location or political views. In his statement, President Zelensky emphasized that peace is a common goal that transcends any political ambitions: “Peace is more than any aggressor. Let’s not think about Russia, but focus on our own affairs.”
Delving further into Ukraine’s position in the context of international relations, the president also highlighted the importance of interaction with China. “I believe that China has influence over Russia and can help us,” stressed Zelensky. He noted that Ukraine has no enemies among other countries except Putin.
Regarding specific plans, the president noted that the de-occupation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has become closer after the summit in Switzerland. “There will be meetings… Yes, it is approaching. Everyone acknowledges that the de-occupation of Zaporizhzhia must take place. Through diplomatic means. There will be meetings on a platform in one of the countries where nuclear security is discussed. And a phased plan will be developed. That is our goal,” explained Zelensky.
This summit and its outcomes have become a crucial stage in the development of events on the international stage, particularly concerning the conflict in Ukraine. Although the path to peace is still long, such documents and efforts demonstrate the general desire for stability and reconciliation.
For further information on this topic, please refer to the article on the website: Ukraine and Finland Sign Agreement on Security Cooperation and Long-Term Support