Ukraine foreign minister Andrii Sybiha spoke in Helsinki

Ukraine foreign minister Andrii Sybiha spoke in Helsinki

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha addressed the Helsinki+50 Conference in Helsinki, Finland, on Thursday, July 2, 2025. The conference marked the 50th anniversary of Finland's chairing of the Conference of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Sybiha's meeting with Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen focused on critical issues including Ukraine's peace efforts, Finland's role in assisting the war-torn country, and Ukraine's Euro-Atlantic integration [1].

Valtonen and Sybiha discussed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for sustainable peace. Valtonen stated, "Ukraine is fighting for its independence, and it has repeatedly demonstrated that it is willing and ready to achieve sustainable peace – unlike Russia, which, quite the contrary, is accelerating its attacks on civilian targets too. Ukraine deserves our firm support." She also encouraged Ukraine to continue with necessary reforms and ensure the independence and efficiency of key institutions [1].

The conference comes at a time when the OSCE, which includes Ukraine, Russia, and the United States, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The OSCE, founded in 1975, has a history of promoting democracy and peace in Europe. Its final act, signed in Helsinki, committed signatories to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms, which played a significant role in ending the Cold War [2].

The meeting in Helsinki also coincides with recent escalations in the conflict. Russia has been stepping up air strikes on Ukrainian towns and cities, with a recent attack on Kyiv killing at least six people, including a child [3]. The Ukrainian foreign minister, Sybiha, expressed frustration with Russia's actions and reiterated the need for diplomatic solutions.

The OSCE's potential to broker peace in Ukraine remains a topic of discussion. While the organization has been criticized for not stopping Putin's aggression, it continues to operate and promote human rights, conflict prevention, and honest elections. The OSCE's inclusive nature, involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia, makes it a unique platform for diplomatic efforts [2].

In conclusion, the Helsinki+50 Conference highlights the ongoing efforts to achieve peace and stability in Europe. The meeting between Valtonen and Sybiha underscores the international community's commitment to supporting Ukraine and promoting dialogue. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the OSCE's role in facilitating diplomatic solutions remains crucial.

References:
[1] https://yle.fi/a/74-20174983
[2] https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/jul/31/helsinki-accord-masterpiece-european-diplomacy-fifty-years-need-spirit-more-ever
[3] https://www.tradingview.com/news/reuters.com,2025:newsml_L1N3TS05Y:0-russian-air-strike-on-kyiv-kills-six-officials-say/