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Kyiv Security Forum. Thursday, April 6

Kyiv Security Forum. Thursday, April 6

<div class="raw-html-embed"><iframe width="100%" height="560" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ts5bzLJoAVs?si=M7kG7Wvf0wYeyAXF" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Signing the Budapest Memorandum was one of the most fundamental mistakes in Ukrainian foreign policy. In 1994, Ukraine voluntarily relinquished the world's third-largest nuclear arsenal, but received only political declarations in exchange.Arseniy Yatsenyuk, Ukraine's Prime Minister from 2014 to 2016 and Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, discussed this at the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE"."The original Budapest Memorandum does not contain a single word about guarantees. Even if it did, these guarantees were not secured by anything," he said.<img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/0x0_4_35f5bd6c94.jpeg" alt="0x0 (4).jpeg" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_0x0_4_35f5bd6c94.jpeg 234w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_0x0_4_35f5bd6c94.jpeg 500w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_0x0_4_35f5bd6c94.jpeg 750w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/large_0x0_4_35f5bd6c94.jpeg 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px">Arseniy Yatsenyuk stressed that neither the U.S. administration nor Congress was ready to make legal commitments to Ukraine at that time. "The American side clearly stated that it would not certify the memorandum. This was said during closed negotiations," the former Prime Minister emphasized.“I can quote President Clinton, who apologized to the Ukrainian people for signing the Budapest Memorandum. This is important, but the fact remains that this decision effectively paved the way for russia to occupy Ukraine," he added.Arseniy Yatsenyuk noted that Ukraine had been under threat of russian aggression long before 2014, but the world ignored it. "At that time, few believed that russia would invade Ukraine. The world turned a blind eye. We are seeing the same thing happen now," he said.The politician recalled that, in 2014, he had to convince his Western counterparts that the events in Crimea were not the work of "little green men", but rather of regular russian army units. He also mentioned Ukraine's rejection of NATO's Membership Action Plan and russia's war against Georgia as examples of the same logic of underestimating the Kremlin's threat.According to Arseniy Yatsenyuk, the main conclusion concerns possible future negotiations. "If a miracle happens – and I emphasize, a miracle – and real peace talks begin, we must never allow the mistakes of the Budapest Memorandum to be repeated. Ukraine has no right to agree a second time to fictitious ‘guarantees’ that are not secured by protection mechanisms and real commitments from partners,” he stressed.Arseniy Yatsenyuk also emphasized that the Budapest Memorandum, which was intended to provide security guarantees, instead set a precedent with entirely different consequences. Ukraine got rid of its nuclear weapons, lost 20% of its territory, and is now being attacked by a nuclear-armed state. Therefore, this is a very important historical lesson. But we're the ones paying for this history lesson," the politician concluded.Open Ukraine is an international foundation established by Arseniy Yatsenyuk in July 2007. Its goal is to strengthen and develop Ukraine's authority in the world. The foundation organizes the Kyiv Security Forum every year. This leading international discussion platform focuses on issues of war and peace. The foundation also organizes the Kyiv Youth Security Forum to develop a new generation of Ukrainian leaders.&nbsp;

Signing the Budapest Memorandum was one of the most fundamental mistakes in Ukrainian foreign policy. In 1994, Ukraine voluntarily relinquished the world's third-largest nuclear arsenal, but received only political declarations in exchange.

Arseniy Yatsenyuk: Mistakes of the Budapest Memorandum must not be repeated – it paved the way for the occupation of Ukraine

<img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/0x0_753db0aaf0.jpeg" alt="0x0.jpeg" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_0x0_753db0aaf0.jpeg 234w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_0x0_753db0aaf0.jpeg 500w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_0x0_753db0aaf0.jpeg 750w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/large_0x0_753db0aaf0.jpeg 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px">The current so-called negotiations are merely an imitation. "Russia is playing this game, and everyone is either pretending to like it or participating in it." Arseniy Yatsenyuk, Ukraine's Prime Minister from 2014 to 2016 and Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, discussed this at the 11th Youth Kyiv Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".He stressed that the only real indicators of peace can be the situation on the front lines, the level of military and financial assistance to Ukraine, and the effectiveness of sanctions against Russia.At the same time, Arseniy Yatsenyuk warned against attempts to undermine the President's legitimacy during the war. To preserve unity, he said, it is "crucial to uphold the legitimacy of the presidential institution". He said, "There have already been thoughts about possible changes to the Ukrainian government, and these thoughts did not originate in Ukraine. The president has opponents and supporters in Ukraine. However, I believe that if the institution of the President, the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, is undermined today, Ukraine will repeat its experience from a century ago. We have already been through this history."At the same time, the politician stressed, “It is extremely important that the President himself realizes his historical responsibility to the Ukrainian state. Neither he nor we can afford to make mistakes.”Arseniy Yatsenyuk also emphasized the critical importance of financial support for Ukraine. "If the issue of how to close the $70 billion gap next year is not resolved... we can't win the war without money," the former Prime Minister stressed.However, he says that victory depends not only on political decisions, but also on everyone's focused work. "If everyone does their job, we will win."Open Ukraine is an international foundation established by Arseniy Yatsenyuk in July 2007. Its goal is to strengthen and develop Ukraine's authority in the world. The foundation organizes the Kyiv Security Forum every year. This leading international discussion platform focuses on issues of war and peace. The foundation also organizes the Youth Kyiv Security Forum to develop a new generation of Ukrainian leaders.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The current so-called negotiations are merely an imitation. Arseniy Yatsenyukg this game, and everyone is either pretending to like it or participating in it."  Arseniy Yatsenyuk, Ukraine's Prime Minister from 2014 to 2016 and Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, discussed this at the 11th Youth Kyiv Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".

Arseniy Yatsenyuk at the Youth Kyiv Security Forum: We have no right to repeat Ukraine's experience of a century ago  

<img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/0x0_17_aebbe47bc8.jpg" alt="0x0 (17).jpg" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_0x0_17_aebbe47bc8.jpg 234w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_0x0_17_aebbe47bc8.jpg 500w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_0x0_17_aebbe47bc8.jpg 750w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/large_0x0_17_aebbe47bc8.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px">In 1994, Ukrainian society did not demand security guarantees or pursue NATO membership. At that time, the presidential elections showed that Ukrainians were predominantly pro-Russia, and now we are seeing the consequences of that.Journalist Vitaly Portnikov stated this during the 11th Youth Kyiv Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE"."Most citizens supported the candidate who spoke about restoring ties with Russia. At the time, the question "Who will attack us?" sounded absurd, and NATO was viewed negatively until nearly 2014," Vitaly Portnikov said.He emphasized that Ukrainians did not realize the risks that their Western partners had seen for years. This, he said, is why the U.S. was cautious and consistent in the 1990s. "Americans had a better understanding of what the collapse of the USSR could lead to. They warned that Ukraine's attempts to defend its independence could lead to a catastrophe," he noted.Addressing the current situation, the journalist pointed out how the concept of "peace" is distorted in public discourse. He noted that ceasefires are part of any settlement process, but real "peace treaties" are impossible without a balance of power.<img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/0x0_3_ea59a3f07f.jpeg" alt="0x0 (3).jpeg" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_0x0_3_ea59a3f07f.jpeg 234w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_0x0_3_ea59a3f07f.jpeg 500w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_0x0_3_ea59a3f07f.jpeg 750w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/large_0x0_3_ea59a3f07f.jpeg 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px">According to him, even the Trump administration's approach to the Russian-Ukrainian war demonstrated internal inconsistency. "Before the meeting in Alaska, Trump convinced Putin to cease fire. Afterwards, he started talking about a peace treaty. However, as long as there is no real ceasefire, these are all moves in an unclear direction and attempts to save face."Separately, Vitaly Portnikov emphasized that, although Ukraine is not currently experiencing a political crisis, it has been in a state of governance crisis for the past six years."The crisis began the day Zelenskyy took office. It is a crisis of state governance, wherein institutions are failing to fulfill their functions. We cannot establish robust parliamentary, governmental, and presidential institutions. Without them, a country living under the threat of extinction will not survive," the journalist explained.He emphasized that the system should revert to the traditional European model, in which the government is accountable to Parliament rather than to Parliament rather than the President's office."If deputies believe that the most effective ministers are representatives of one party or another, that is their responsibility. That is how democracy works. It's not a model in which three or four managers make decisions in the President's office," Vitaly Portnikov summed up.The journalist emphasized that only restoring the state's institutional capacity will allow Ukraine to move forward with confidence amid constant threats to its existence.Open Ukraine is an international foundation established by Arseniy Yatsenyuk in July 2007. Its goal is to strengthen and develop Ukraine's authority in the world. The foundation organizes the Kyiv Security Forum every year. This leading international discussion platform focuses on issues of war and peace. The foundation also organizes the Youth Kyiv Security Forum to develop a new generation of Ukrainian leaders.<o:p></o:p>&nbsp;

In 1994, Ukrainian society did not demand security guarantees or pursue NATO membership. At that time, the presidential elections showed that Ukrainians were predominantly pro-Russia, and now we are seeing the consequences of that.

Vitaly Portnikov: Ukraine has lived without realizing its own security issues for 30 years – and now it is paying the price

An exhibition of Ukrainian MilTech developments took place during the 11th Youth Kyiv Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE", organized by the Arseniy Yatsenyuk Open Ukraine Foundation. During the event, Ukrainian manufacturers presented their developments, which help the military on the battlefield daily.&nbsp;Among other things, instructors from the KillHouse Academy of the Third Army Corps demoed military simulators for training FPV pilots. "People can try it out, and if interested, they can enroll in our course. Since the academy was founded in April 2024, we already have over three thousand graduates," said Anton, a representative of the Academy.<img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Whats_App_Image_2025_12_08_at_17_51_32_939b6eaf90.jpeg" alt="WhatsApp Image 2025-12-08 at 17.51.32.jpeg" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_08_at_17_51_32_939b6eaf90.jpeg 235w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_08_at_17_51_32_939b6eaf90.jpeg 500w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_08_at_17_51_32_939b6eaf90.jpeg 750w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/large_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_08_at_17_51_32_939b6eaf90.jpeg 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px">SkyFall is one of Ukraine's largest military technology companies, producing VAMPIRE bomber drones, various models of Shrike FPVs, and P1-SUN interceptors of Shahed-type drones, which are successfully deployed on various sections of the frontline and demonstrate strong results in countering air threats.<o:p></o:p><img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_f663eaa8d2.png" alt="image.png" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_image_f663eaa8d2.png 234w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_image_f663eaa8d2.png 500w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_image_f663eaa8d2.png 750w" sizes="100vw" width="750" height="442" v:shapes="Рисунок_x0020_14" uploadprocessed="true"><o:p></o:p>The forum featured the VAMPIRE drone, the most effective multi-purpose strike drone bomber in its class, which is used by the Defense Forces across the frontline to destroy enemy equipment, fortifications, and manpower, as well as for remote mining and delivery of cargo to units in challenging locations. Overall, more than 2 million combat missions have been completed, and the damage to equipment and manpower is estimated at more than $4 billion. Because of the large-scale losses it causes and the panic it creates on the battlefield, the enemy calls the VAMPIRE 'Baba Yaga' (note: a witch-like terrifying old woman from Slavic folklore).A separate specialization of the company is the SkyFall Academy – a training center certified by the Ministry of Defense, which over the past two years has trained more than 12,000 pilots and technicians to operate the VAMPIRE, Shrike, and P1-SUN systems.Athlon Avia Scientific – Production Enterprise, which has been operating on the market for 11 years, has introduced the now-legendary UAS "Furia" which includes not only the reconnaissance aircraft but also a ground control station and an antenna complex.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p><img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_823aade04b.png" alt="image.png" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_image_823aade04b.png 234w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_image_823aade04b.png 500w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_image_823aade04b.png 750w" sizes="100vw" width="750" height="442" v:shapes="Рисунок_x0020_13" uploadprocessed="true"><o:p></o:p>"Currently, the Furia is in service with more than 100 brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and is represented in all branches of the military, as well as in other defense formations (National Guard, State Border Guard Service, Security Service of Ukraine, Main Intelligence Directorate)," noted Vadym Kruts, head of the research department at Athlon. According to him, Athlon Avia focuses on constant interaction with the brigades, round-the-clock technical support, maintenance services, and pilot training.&nbsp;"We repair our UAVs free of charge and, when necessary, in critical situations, replace the aircraft. We help recruits get their MOS-216 certification. In 2024–2025, more than 650 soldiers have gone through our program. In addition, this summer we launched a manufacturer-led recruiting campaign. We invite civilians to become Furia pilots and are able to guarantee them a placement in the brigade of their choice. We help them progress from recruit to obtaining MOS-216 and the position of pilot," Vadym noted.<o:p></o:p><img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_f301064f15.png" alt="image.png" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_image_f301064f15.png 234w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_image_f301064f15.png 500w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_image_f301064f15.png 750w" sizes="100vw" width="750" height="442" v:shapes="Рисунок_x0020_12" uploadprocessed="true"><o:p></o:p>Representatives of JET Company exhibited a 13-inch quadcopter, available in three versions: a radio-controlled "kamikaze," a fiber-optic "kamikaze," and a separate 10-inch LR (long-range) with a drop (conditionally a bomber).<o:p></o:p><img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_04109d6849.png" alt="image.png" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_image_04109d6849.png 234w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_image_04109d6849.png 500w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_image_04109d6849.png 750w" sizes="100vw" width="750" height="442" v:shapes="Рисунок_x0020_11" uploadprocessed="true"><o:p></o:p>A company developer described how a unique model was created at the request of the military for a specific product and later put into serial production."This year, in March, one of the units requested the development of a UAV capable of carrying up to 1 kg of payload over a distance of 35 km, even against headwinds, and with sufficient battery capacity to conduct reconnaissance or hover in place to strike distant logistics sites. We fulfilled this request and developed the JET 10-LR model, achieving characteristics that allow it to fly a full 40 km with a 1-kg payload in real combat conditions. It was from this specific request of one unit that one of our advanced models emerged," Vladyslav said. In turn, representatives of JET Company showcased a 13-inch quadcopter available in three versions: a radio-controlled "kamikaze," a fiber-optic "kamikaze," and a separate 10-inch LR (long-range) with a drop (conditionally a bomber).&nbsp;Arsen, a representative of JET Company, added: "We actively communicate with our operators; we take all feedback into account – what they want to see, what their current needs are. We try to produce the required solution as quickly as possible and hand it over for testing."At the MILTech exhibition, Air 3F showcased its VARKHAN ground-based robotic complex (GRC). The company describes this development as "a reliable ground robot capable of operating in extreme conditions and across various types of terrain." Thanks to its mobility, modern control systems, and modularity, it is effective in different types of missions: logistics, evacuation, ammunition delivery, and reconnaissance." GRC weight – 320 kg, speed – 20 km/h, peak load capacity – 370 kg, range – up to 40 km. The company also exhibited other developments: ground-based stations, drones, and related electronics.<o:p></o:p><img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_cd9a2afbd8.png" alt="image.png" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_image_cd9a2afbd8.png 234w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_image_cd9a2afbd8.png 500w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_image_cd9a2afbd8.png 750w" sizes="100vw" width="750" height="442" v:shapes="Рисунок_x0020_10" uploadprocessed="true"><o:p></o:p>Teletactica also presented its latest developments at the exhibition, showcasing modern defense and dual-use communication systems. During the event, the company emphasized its telemetry and digital communication modems, as well as antennas resistant to electronic warfare (EW) systems, which provide reliable and secure communication for UAVs and other unmanned platforms. According to company representatives, Teletactica’s solutions have proven effective in environments without GPS and under increased levels of radio interference.<o:p></o:p><img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_d23c0eecd2.png" alt="image.png" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_image_d23c0eecd2.png 235w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_image_d23c0eecd2.png 500w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_image_d23c0eecd2.png 750w" sizes="100vw" width="750" height="442" v:shapes="Рисунок_x0020_9" uploadprocessed="true"><o:p></o:p>Tactical medicine instructors from the Patronage Service "Angels" and representatives of the Centre for Information Resilience (CIR) also took part in the exhibition.<o:p></o:p><img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_9b3afb68d8.png" alt="image.png" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_image_9b3afb68d8.png 234w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_image_9b3afb68d8.png 500w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_image_9b3afb68d8.png 750w" sizes="100vw" width="750" height="442" v:shapes="Рисунок_x0020_8" uploadprocessed="true"><o:p></o:p><img src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/8_1c1d5ff0ee.jpeg" alt="8.jpeg" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_8_1c1d5ff0ee.jpeg 234w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_8_1c1d5ff0ee.jpeg 500w,https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_8_1c1d5ff0ee.jpeg 750w," sizes="100vw" width="750px">The Youth Kyiv Security Forum is an annual platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities that young Ukrainians are facing in the context of the ongoing war. This year's event highlights an important role of Ukrainian youth and their growing contribution to the country's defense, innovations, and recovery. The forum brought together 150 young leaders from all over Ukraine.<o:p></o:p>Open Ukraine is an international foundation established by Arseniy Yatsenyuk in July 2007. Its goal is to strengthen and develop Ukraine's authority in the world. The foundation organizes the Kyiv Security Forum every year. This leading international discussion platform focuses on issues of war and peace. The foundation also organizes the Youth Kyiv Security Forum to develop a new generation of Ukrainian leaders.<o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p>More news from the 11th Youth Kyiv Security Forum – <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://ksf.openukraine.org/en">here</a> Videos from the Forum – <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@KyivSecurityForum">here</a> &nbsp;

An exhibition of Ukrainian MilTech developments took place during the 11th Youth Kyiv Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE", organized by the Arseniy Yatsenyuk Open Ukraine Foundation. During the event, Ukrainian manufacturers presented their developments, which help the military on the battlefield daily. 

GRCs and FPVs: VAMPIRE, JET, VARKHAN, FURIA. The latest developments from Ukrainian MilTech showcased at the Youth Kyiv Security Forum 

Putin is trying to sow fear among the EU member states to block the use of frozen Russian assets as collateral to secure a loan for Ukraine. This was stated by the Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, Prime Minister of Ukraine (2014-2016) Arseniy Yatsenyuk in an interview with British radio station LBC.According to him, Putin's threats against Belgium following the announcement of a possible unfreezing of assets are a common intimidation tactic.‘This is scaremongering. It is important for the European Union and the free world – remnants of the free world – just to act, to make the decision. And this decision is on the table. Russia has committed a crime of aggression and crimes against humanity. It is crystal clear that Russia has to pay the price,’ Yatsenyuk stressed.The former prime minister stressed that using frozen assets as collateral is the first step towards holding Russia accountable.The Chairman of the KSF also explained the position of Belgium, which opposed the confiscation of assets: "The Belgian government was concerned about acts of sabotage and terrorism. But again, that’s a regular playbook of Putin. He simply wants to sow fear among the EU member states. And the only response we have is just to act and show that we are fearless, that we do not care about his threats, that we act to make Ukraine win this war."At the same time, according to the former prime minister, the European Commission has provided support to the Belgian government, which effectively paves the way for the right decision to be made. Yatsenyuk also stressed Ukraine's critical need for funding."We are completely out of cash, and everyone knows it. Ukraine has been provided a really strong lifeline from our European partners, and as of now we desperetaly need a new injection of both financial and military support. The EU seized around $200 billion, and maybe even more, of the russian sovereign assets [...] It is important for the EU to show that they are serious about either confiscating or using the sovereign assets to provide the reparation loan for Ukraine to give it a line in order to prevail in &nbsp;this war," the Chairman of the KSF concluded.

Putin is trying to sow fear among the EU member states to block the use of frozen Russian assets as collateral to secure a loan for Ukraine. This was stated by the Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, Prime Minister of Ukraine (2014-2016) Arseniy Yatsenyuk in an interview with British radio station LBC.

Yatsenyuk: Putin is intimidating Belgium to block the use of Russian assets as collateral for Ukraine

One of the most dangerous challenges of the war against Ukraine and all of Europe is corruption, which unites the interests of Washington and Moscow and undermines the idea of Western democracy. This was emphasised by the Director of the Kyiv Security Forum, diplomat Danylo Lubkivsky, in an interview with SlawaTV."The corruption we see in many Western countries, the corruption that shows the merging of interests of various transatlantic forces, from Washington to Moscow, this corruption undermines the very idea of American democracy, the idea of Western democracy. And this corruption is perhaps one of the most dangerous challenges of the war that is currently being waged against all of Europe and Ukraine," the Director of the KSF emphasised.He added that Ukraine is showing resilience, the ability to fight and, more importantly, to solve chronic problems that haven't been solved for a long time: ‘This is a healthy force that sets an example for all of Europe.’Lubkivsky believes that Ukraine is moving towards some form of resolution of the war, but the process could take a whole year. The key, he stressed, is to ensure conditions that do not harm Ukraine's strategic interests."We are moving towards a certain solution. Everything will depend on the details. This process may take some time, a long time, perhaps the entire next year. Today, it is important that the truce that will inevitably arise in this bloody war is based on conditions that do not harm the strategic interests of Ukraine, Europe and the entire free world [...] If Europe is capable of demonstrating leadership and providing security guarantees for Ukraine, this will be an adequate response to the challenges that are coming today not only from Russia but also, unfortunately, from America," the KSF Director emphasised.He outlined the geopolitical context in which the search for a solution is taking place. According to him, Europe is ‘surrounded’ and under the pressure of Russia and American allies, who have demonstrated their readiness for aggressive action. The Director of the KSF added that this concern has become the central theme of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's meetings with European leaders."Europe is “surrounded”. And this is probably the main feature, the essence of what is being discussed in European capitals today. The European position is under attack, and not only from the Russian aggressor, but also from the American allies, who have demonstrated that they are ready for aggressive actions against Europe," he concluded.

One of the most dangerous challenges of the war against Ukraine and all of Europe is corruption, which unites the interests of Washington and Moscow and undermines the idea of Western democracy. This was emphasised by the Director of the Kyiv Security Forum, diplomat Danylo Lubkivsky, in an interview with SlawaTV.

Director of the KSF Lubkivsky: The convergence of interests between Washington and Moscow undermines Western democracy

Only Ukraine's victory guarantees Europe's long-term security; the opposite scenario would be disastrous for the entire continent. This was emphasised by the Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum (KSF), Prime Minister of Ukraine in 2014-2016 Arseniy Yatsenyuk, during strategic consultations on the future of European defence organised by European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius in Brussels.<figure class="image"><img alt="WhatsApp Image 2025-12-10 at 17.29.37_0c1c10a0.jpg" src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Whats_App_Image_2025_12_10_at_17_29_37_0c1c10a0_62c1f12225.jpg" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_10_at_17_29_37_0c1c10a0_62c1f12225.jpg 223w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_10_at_17_29_37_0c1c10a0_62c1f12225.jpg 500w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_10_at_17_29_37_0c1c10a0_62c1f12225.jpg 750w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/large_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_10_at_17_29_37_0c1c10a0_62c1f12225.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"></figure>The aim of the consultations, in their new format, is to facilitate the preparation of strategic decisions on strengthening the European Union's defence capabilities and defining the EU's new role in the global security system.During the meeting, key issues of the future defence development of the EU were discussed, in particular the further evolution of European institutions in the field of defence, the formation of a common defence market and the development of production, the future of transatlantic relations in the field of security and defence, the EU's cooperation with Ukraine in the field of defence and the formation of European policy towards Russia. During the consultations, specific proposals were presented for the development of a common European defence strategy with the participation of Ukraine.‘Ukraine must be an integral part of the European defence architecture. And we will continue to work together to make this happen, Arseniy Yatsenyuk stressed, emphasising the defining role of Ukraine's support in deterring Russian aggression.‘We need not only material, institutional and political, but also intellectual defence readiness,’ stressed European Commissioner Kubilius. That is why, according to him, experienced politicians and diplomats were invited to the discussion on the future of European defence and the main challenges of creating a European Defence Union.<figure class="image"><img alt="WhatsApp Image 2025-12-10 at 17.29.37_384e90a1.jpg" src="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Whats_App_Image_2025_12_10_at_17_29_37_384e90a1_7c96175458.jpg" srcset="https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/thumbnail_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_10_at_17_29_37_384e90a1_7c96175458.jpg 245w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/small_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_10_at_17_29_37_384e90a1_7c96175458.jpg 500w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/medium_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_10_at_17_29_37_384e90a1_7c96175458.jpg 750w, https://ksf-openukraine.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/large_Whats_App_Image_2025_12_10_at_17_29_37_384e90a1_7c96175458.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"></figure>The first session of this format was attended by, among others José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission in 2004-2014; Carl Bildt, former Prime Minister of Sweden and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden in 2006-2014; Mikuláš Dzurinda, Prime Minister of Slovakia (1998-2006); Natalia Gavrilita, Prime Minister of Moldova (2021-2023); Stavros Lambrinidis, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece (2011) and EU Ambassador to the United States (2019–2023); Enrico Letta, Prime Minister of Italy (2013–2014); Ana Palacio, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Spain (2002-2004); Hans-Gert Pöttering, President of the European Parliament (2007-2009); Klaus Welle, Secretary-General of the European Parliament (2009-2022).

Only Ukraine's victory guarantees Europe's long-term security; the opposite scenario would be disastrous for the entire continent. This was emphasised by the Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum (KSF), Prime Minister of Ukraine in 2014-2016 Arseniy Yatsenyuk, during strategic consultations on the future of European defence organised by European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius in Brussels.

Only Ukraine's victory guarantees Europe's security; the opposite scenario would be disastrous, says the Chairman of the KSF in Brussels

US President Donald Trump wants to end war in Ukraine quickly, not for the sake of international law or long-term interests, but for specific political goals, namely the midterm elections in Congress and the 2028 presidential race. This was stated by the Director of the Kyiv Security Forum, diplomat Danylo Lubkivsky, on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1cJhZ_IBf4">Radio NV</a>.According to him, Trump is acting on the basis of a broader calculation that goes beyond mere negotiations to contain Russian aggression and involves several key priorities. ‘First of all, the American administration is consistently preparing and developing various plans for negotiations with China,’ said the Kyiv Security Forum Director.The second priority, he said, is preparation for next year’s midterm elections to the US Congress and the 2028 presidential election. ‘We understand that a very difficult domestic political situation is brewing in the United States, which could escalate into significant civil unrest,’ Lubkivsky added.According to the diplomat, it is these priorities that determine Trump's approach to resolving the war in Ukraine, which is to achieve results quickly at any cost."Trump is trying to accumulate those achievements as quickly as possible, which can be metaphorically called a kind of grand Nobel Peace Prize. This imaginary prize includes the intention to do everything possible to stop the bloody war against Ukraine. And to this end, Trump is ready to disregard the means. His goal is not to uphold international law or long-term global interests, but to achieve specific political objectives that are determined by a specific timetable," Lubkivsky emphasised.At the same time, he drew attention to the ideological basis of the Trump administration's policy, which includes a new model of relations with Europe."This model is based on a complex, highly controversial political tradition in the thinking of the American establishment, where Europe has not always been perceived as an ally, but rather as a source of problems in a philosophical sense, from which one should stay as far away as possible. The Trump-Vance ideology is an attempt to undermine both the European established order, which we see in the leadership of the European Commission, and the political leadership of Europe's leading states," said the Director of the KSF.According to him, the American administration is counting on cooperation with ‘Trojan horses’ within the EU. According to the diplomat, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico play this role.The KSF Director emphasised two key questions for Ukraine's future in this context. "Are leading European states ready to demonstrate political will and agency to protect Ukraine, thereby strengthening their own security and international law? And to what extent does Ukraine have sufficient resources to withstand the intense pressure from the American administration and the Russian aggressor in order to reach a point where we can prevent the violation of red lines that protect our strategic interests," Lubkivsky concluded.

US President Donald Trump wants to end the war in Ukraine quickly, not for the sake of international law or long-term interests, but for specific political goals, namely the midterm elections in Congress and the 2028 presidential race. This was stated by the Director of the Kyiv Security Forum, diplomat Danylo Lubkivsky on Radio NV.

Director of the Kyiv Security Forum Lubkivsky: Trump is trying to end war quickly for specific political goals

Real security guarantees for Ukraine must be materialised, not merely exist in legal form – these include specific stocks of weapons, equipment and NATO training centres on our territory, not abroad. This was emphasised by the Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, Prime Minister of Ukraine in 2014-2016, Arseniy Yatsenyuk, on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://youtu.be/BmuP_gmnZ4Q?si=oVO7Xk5tMgxjuGm5">Espreso TV</a>."Security guarantees are not guarantees on paper, but guarantees on the ground. And when I say “on the ground”, I mean that Ukraine needs to have arms reserves not somewhere abroad, but in Ukraine [...] It is necessary to have long-range weapons that would serve as a means of defence against Russian strikes,” Yatsenyuk said.He emphasised that having a powerful arsenal is crucial to preventing Russia from launching full-scale attacks again."The Russians need to know that as soon as they start, as soon as they resume attacks, Ukraine has Tomahawk, Taurus, Storm Shadow and other weapons that will be used to retaliate against Russia. Ukraine needs to have training centres on its territory with the direct participation of our NATO allies," the KSF Chairman added.The former prime minister highlighted how vital it is for the guarantees to be legally binding – they need to be ratified by the national parliaments of the guarantor countries, rather than just being political agreements.

Real security guarantees for Ukraine must be materialised, not merely exist in legal form – these include specific stocks of weapons, equipment and NATO training centres on our territory, not abroad. This was emphasised by Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, Prime Minister of Ukraine in 2014-2016, Arseniy Yatsenyuk, on Espreso TV.

Yatsenyuk: Security guarantees imply military capabilities within Ukraine, not abroad

The new US national security strategy has shaken the European Union and made it realise that the world order after 1945 has changed. America no longer considers Russia a threat, calls the war ‘Ukrainian’, and labels Europe weak. This was stated by Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, Prime Minister of Ukraine in 2014-2016, Arseniy Yatsenyuk, on Espreso TV.The former prime minister, staying in Brussels for strategic consultations on the future of European defence, noted that many European partners who had just returned from Washington had reacted to the new US security strategy "with surprise, while others were not surprised at all".Chairman of the KSF outlined the key provisions of the strategy concerning Ukraine and Russia. "This document does not state that Russia is the greatest threat to the US. Moreover, it does not even mention that Russia is a threat to America. There is no mention of "Russia's war against Ukraine", but there is mention of "the Ukrainian war" [...] It states that the United States seeks strategic stability with Russia," he emphasised.The former prime minister also drew attention to the description of Europe in the doctrine: "On the one hand, it states that the European Union is a fairly powerful institution with many tools at its disposal. But on the other hand, a few pages later, you can see that Europe is weak and not an ally of the United States."At the same time, Chairman of the KSF added that the content of the doctrine was not unexpected for him, as it corresponds to Donald Trump's election campaign rhetoric. "I view it [the document] as confirmation of the reality and policies of the current US administration," he noted.According to the former prime minister, if we are to look for the positive, the most important conclusion is that the Trump administration has "shaken up" Europe and forced it to realise the transformation of the world order. "It has simply forced Europe to realise that the world order that existed after 1945, or the so-called Pax Americana-based world order, where the United States is the main force protecting rights, freedoms, independence, sovereignty and is the key leader of the free world, has changed," Yatsenyuk said.He stressed the need for Europe to draw conclusions about its own strength. "If you are not powerful enough, you will be spoken to in this kind of manner," added Chairman of the KSF.The second key conclusion concerns the US position on Ukraine, which changes the distribution of responsibility for ending the war. "The United States does not consider Ukraine to be its key priority and does not consider Russia to be the greatest danger. This means that it is important for us not to lose American support, at least to the extent that it exists. The main burden and responsibility for ending the war will fall primarily on the member states of the European Union," Yatsenyuk stressed.The former prime minister drew attention to an important factor that is holding back a radical change in US policy towards Ukraine: support among the American population. "Eight out of ten Americans support sanctions against Russia. Neither President Trump nor the Republican Party can ignore this fact. If it were otherwise, I think we would see completely different negotiations on Ukraine," he added.At the same time, according to Chairman of the KSF, the document should be an impetus for concrete action. "It is necessary to provide an additional package of assistance to Ukraine at European expense. Then we need to maintain relations with America in order to purchase American weapons, receive intelligence data, and ensure that America does not lift sanctions against Russia. And then we need to continue the dialogue within NATO on how to achieve fair peace terms for Ukraine," Yatsenyuk concluded.

The new US national security strategy has shaken the European Union and made it realise that the world order after 1945 has changed. America no longer considers Russia a threat, calls the war ‘Ukrainian’, and labels Europe weak. This was stated by Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, Prime Minister of Ukraine in 2014-2016, Arseniy Yatsenyuk, on Espreso TV.