Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has urged the creation of a new international security system aimed at preventing future instances of armed aggression. Yermak made this appeal during an online conference on Monday, focusing on securing peace following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Focus On Strengthening Global Security
Yermak emphasised the need for a stronger global security framework, noting that existing systems have failed to prevent Russia’s aggression and its widespread impact. He stressed that the proposed system must extend beyond military aspects to include sanctions, financial support, and international cooperation across multiple sectors.
“We need a renewed security architecture based on international law and the strengthening of Ukraine’s own defence capabilities,” Yermak said. The conference, attended by 66 countries and international organisations, aimed to prevent future conflicts and support Ukraine’s defence.
Zelenskyy’s “Victory Plan” And Global Diplomacy
Yermak’s remarks come as President Zelenskyy prepares to present his “victory plan” to Ukraine’s parliament this week. This plan follows a peace proposal from late 2022, which called for the withdrawal of Russian troops and the restoration of Ukraine’s 1991 borders. The peace plan was the basis of a “peace summit” held in Switzerland in June, though Russia was excluded from the event and dismissed it as irrelevant.
Zelenskyy has also announced plans for a new “world summit” before the end of 2024. This initiative seeks to garner international support, particularly from Africa and Asia, to build momentum for lasting peace.
Strengthening Ukraine Before Dialogue
Details of Zelenskyy’s “victory plan” remain limited, but it is expected to prioritise strengthening Ukraine’s geopolitical and military position ahead of any future negotiations with Russia. Zelenskyy has been in talks with European allies to secure the use of long-range Western weapons against Russian targets, further enhancing Ukraine’s defence strategy.
The Ukrainian administration continues to seek global support and cooperation to secure the country’s future and navigate the ongoing war.
(With inputs from Reuters)
