FM Sybiha tells Rutte about growing threats from Russia and Belarus, urges strong collective deterrence

The minister posted this on the social media platform X, according to Ukrinform.

“I informed the Secretary General about Russia’s increased threats to Ukraine and wider Europe from the direction of Belarus. We need strong collective deterrence to prevent regimes in Moscow and Minsk from making mistakes,” the post reads.

During the meeting, the head of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry discussed with the NATO Secretary General the latest developments on the battlefield, Ukraine’s long-range sanctions against Russia—which the Ukrainian minister called extremely successful—and the need to further develop the PURL initiative.

“We also spoke about peace efforts and Europe’s role. To advance diplomacy, pressure on Moscow remains critical. I reiterated that there should be no easing of sanctions,” Sybiha wrote.

He also thanked Rutte for his “significant work in strengthening NATO” and for his support of Ukraine.

As reported by Ukrinform, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that Sweden remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine and is an important NATO member, particularly thanks to its defense technologies and the implementation of the “total defense” concept.

Photo: Andrii Sybiha / X