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Ukraine and Georgia’s struggle against russian aggression stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit — its capacity to withstand dictatorship and the “informational darkness” of authoritarian regimes. This was emphasised by Ia Meurmishvili, Editor-in-Chief of Independence Avenue Media, at the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum “Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?”“Russia is not merely darkness. Russia is evil. And darkness descends when evil prevails. We must ensure that Russia does not win. Most importantly, the human spirit is indomitable: just look at Ukraine, a profound example of this, or Georgia, where protests for freedom of choice have endured for hundreds of days,” she said.Meurmishvili stressed that authoritarian regimes thrive in environments where an information vacuum exists and facts are absent. According to her, dictatorships invest vast resources in spreading their own narratives, using “darkness” as a space devoid of truth.“The battle between light and darkness is not confined to the front lines in Ukraine. It also runs through the information space. When people have access to facts and truth, they make choices very different from those expected by authoritarian leaders. We must continue to fight for this space by ensuring people have access to facts,” the journalist noted.Kyiv Security Forum (KSF) is an annual international event launched in 2007 on the initiative of Arseniy Yatsenyuk Open Ukraine Foundation. This year’s Forum is taking place on 23-24 April.

Ukraine and Georgia’s struggle against russian aggression stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit — its capacity to withstand dictatorship and the “informational darkness” of authoritarian regimes. This was emphasised by Ia Meurmishvili, Editor-in-Chief of Independence Avenue Media, at the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum “Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?”

“We must ensure russia does not win” — Ia Meurmishvili

In recent years, Ukraine has transformed from a recipient of security assistance into its provider, and the partnership with the country is mutually beneficial for both sides. This was stated by Florian Hahn, Minister of State at the German Federal Foreign Office, during the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum, themed “Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?”“Over the past four years, Ukraine has transformed from a security recipient into a security provider. Our strategic partnership is undeniably a win-win for both sides,” he said.Hahn pointed out that one of the outcomes of recent intergovernmental consultations between Germany and Ukraine was the deepening of cooperation, particularly in the field of drones. “Various drones of Ukrainian design will be produced both in Ukraine and in Germany, enabling Ukraine to defend itself against Russian aggression. In the long term, this could also contribute to the defense capabilities of the German Armed Forces and our close partners,” he noted.The Minister of State emphasized that Germany and its partners “can clearly benefit from Ukraine’s expertise, innovation, and defense capabilities in this era and learn from Ukraine as a key partner”.He specifically drew attention to the changing nature of armed conflicts. “Modern conflicts are no longer fought solely on the battlefield,” Hahn noted, emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity, the fight against disinformation, and the resilience of societies.According to Hahn, Russia’s war against Ukraine remains “the most significant and direct threat to the security of Ukraine, Germany, and Europe.” He emphasized that Berlin maintains its unwavering support for Kyiv in both the short and long term.“Our support is not just in words,” he noted, adding that since 2022, Germany has provided and committed to providing €55 billion in military aid to Ukraine, including €11.5 billion this year, as well as €39 billion in civilian assistance.He also emphasized the need for further strengthening of international support. “We call on all partners to step up their efforts in this direction and will continuously explore opportunities for further support,” said the German Minister of State.Hahn emphasized that a just peace is only possible under the condition of respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. “Peace must be based on the core principles of the UN Charter and cannot reward aggression,” he said.The Minister of State at the German Federal Foreign Office also emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine’s European integration course. “Ukraine’s future is in the European Union,” Hahn stated, adding that reforms within the EU accession process are key to the country’s recovery.“If we remain united and determined, the answer to our question will be obvious. The light ahead is not just a possibility, it is within reach,” he concluded.The Kyiv Security Forum (KSF) is an annual international event launched in 2007 upon the initiative of Arseniy Yatsenyuk’s “Open Ukraine” Foundation. This year, it is taking place on April 23-24.

In recent years, Ukraine has transformed from a recipient of security assistance into its provider, and the partnership with the country is mutually beneficial for both sides. This was stated by Florian Hahn, Minister of State at the German Federal Foreign Office, during the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum, themed “Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?”

Ukraine has transformed from a recipient of aid into a provider of security - Minister of State at the German Federal Foreign Office

On the Occasion of the Kyiv Security Forum April 202623 April 2026We, Nobel Peace Prize laureates of Nobel Women’s Initiative, stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, and with the women whose leadership, resilience, and courage are sustaining communities and shaping the path toward justice.At a time when Ukraine continues to endure relentless attacks, we write to express our unwavering support and solidarity. We unequivocally condemn Russia’s ongoing aggression and the grave violations of human rights and international law that have accompanied it.As discussions about Ukraine’s future continue to unfold, one point must be made clear: the human dimension must be restored to the center of decision-making, grounded in the lives, rights, and dignity of those most affected. Too often, these discussions are reduced to territories, resources, and geopolitical arrangements.When people are forgotten, when occupied territories are spoken of as empty spaces, the reality of this war is obscured. Occupation is not a neutral condition; it is a continuation of violence, marked by repression, fear, and constant threat. Ignoring these realities leads to flawed approaches that cannot deliver a just or lasting peace.There can be no just or lasting peace without accountability. Justice is essential, and those responsible must be held to account.Ukrainian civil society has made this clear from the beginning. And across Ukraine, women have been at the forefront, sustaining communities, documenting war crimes, supporting survivors, and demanding justice. They are leading in occupied territories, in detention, in displacement, and in communities rebuilding under constant threat.Ukrainian women are not waiting to be included. They are already leading. Yet too often, their voices, and the voices of those most affected, remain excluded from political and security decision-making. This must change.Women must have equal and meaningful participation in all peace negotiations, including in key decision-making spaces and forums such as the Kyiv Security Forum. The commitments of the Women, Peace and Security agenda must be upheld, not only in principle, but in practice.This must be matched by sustained and flexible funding for women-led and feminist civil society organizations, whose work is essential and too often under-resourced in efforts toward justice, recovery, and lasting peace.We also recognize that this war is fought not only on the battlefield, but in the information space. The manipulation of truth and the erosion of trust are part of the strategy of war. Defending truth is part of defending democracy, and part of defending Ukraine.To the people of Ukraine: we honour your courage, your resistance, and your determination to defend your future. We see the leadership of women who continue to hold communities together and demand justice in the face of immense pressure. We stand with you.And we will continue to insist that all paths to peace must begin with the people of Ukraine and remain accountable to those whose lives, rights, and futures are most affected.Nobel Women’s Initiative is led by eight women Nobel Peace Prize laureates - Jody Williams (USA), Shirin Ebadi (Iran), Tawakkol Karman (Yemen), Leymah Gbowee (Liberia), Rigoberta Menchú Tum (Guatemala), Narges Mohammadi (Iran), Maria Ressa (Philippines) and Oleksandra Matviichuk (Ukraine).Women are crucial to attaining lasting peace, and yet in times of war and conflict they are seen as victims, and too often excluded from formal peace-building processes. The laureates know the importance of women peacebuilders, and the challenges they face firsthand. At NWI they work together to use the platform and access that the Nobel Peace Prize offers to elevate the voices and support the work of women peace activists around the world.

We, Nobel Peace Prize laureates of Nobel Women’s Initiative, stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, and with the women whose leadership, resilience, and courage are sustaining communities and shaping the path toward justice.

Statement by Nobel women’s initiative laureates to the people of Ukraine

Ukraine has proven that even in the darkest moments, democracy is capable of enduring, and its experience is now becoming a reference point for the entire democratic world. Morgan McSweeney, the Chief of Staff to UK Prime Minister (2024–2026), stated this at the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum, which was held under the theme "Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?"According to him, the full-scale war has become a test not only for Ukraine, but for the entire system of democratic values."This country gave hope when everyone thought everything would fall, Ukraine stood firm. People thought democracy would die, yet it holds on. And when everyone was fleeing, your president remained in his place," he emphasized.McSweeney noted that the world has already entered a new historical era, although its contours are not yet fully clear. At the same time, in his assessment, the previous order effectively came to an end after the global financial crisis.He stressed that modern democracies are under significant pressure, both economic and informational. In particular, financial difficulties which, according to him, have persisted for more than two decades, are affecting citizens' living standards and shaping a sense of uncertainty about the future."We cannot even be certain that democracy will exist tomorrow. But this is not a reason for despair. We have the ability to change the situation," the former official noted.He also drew attention to the role of Ukraine's allies. In his view, international support must remain consolidated and focused not only on security, but also on protecting democratic institutions.According to McSweeney, Ukraine is already fulfilling an important role today helping other countries learn how to withstand crises and adapt to new challenges.He also warned about the influence of disinformation, which can, in particular, alter perceptions of reality."This is not only a war; it also has a psychological dimension, where darkness seeks to convince us that power can be unlimited and violence can be the norm," he said.Open Ukraine is an international foundation established by Arseniy Yatsenyuk in July 2007 to strengthen 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.

Ukraine has proven that even in the darkest moments, democracy is capable of enduring, and its experience is now becoming a reference point for the entire democratic world. Morgan McSweeney, the Chief of Staff to UK Prime Minister (2024–2026), stated this at the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum, which was held under the theme "Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?"

Ukraine has become a symbol of democratic resilience – Morgan McSweeney

The future system of international relations will differ significantly from the current one. Iulian Chifu, the President of the Center for Conflict Prevention and Early Warning in Bucharest, made these remarks during the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum, which was held under the theme "Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?"According to him, several development scenarios currently exist, but the most radical of them remain unlikely despite being actively discussed."The darkest scenario is the least probable. We are preparing for it, but we neither have the resources nor the capacity to cope with it," the expert suggested.Chifu emphasized that despite the crisis, the current international system is demonstrating an ability to adapt. Europe continues to function, conclude new agreements, and strengthen cooperation, particularly through bilateral formats. At the same time, he drew attention to the growing influence of revisionist forces seeking to change or even dismantle the existing order."One part of the world is trying to adapt the system, while another essentially wants to destroy it and build a new one even at the cost of global instability," Chifu emphasized.Among the key players, he named the United States, China, and russia, each of which has different visions of the future world order. In particular, Russia, according to him, seeks to gain decisive influence over security in Europe, while other centers of power are advancing their own geopolitical scenarios. The expert also highlighted internal threats to democracies. According to him, destabilizing processes are increasingly emerging not only from outside, but also from within the states themselves."Democracy has no 'brakes'. If processes are not controlled, they can quickly get out of control," Chifu noted.In his view, the key task today is not only to overcome the current crisis, but also to form a clear vision of the future."First, we need to find a way out of the crisis, then determine the direction of movement, and only after that build a new system. If we build nothing, we lose perspective," he emphasized.Open Ukraine is an international foundation established by Arseniy Yatsenyuk in July 2007 to strengthen 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.

The global order is undergoing deep transformation – Iulian Chifu

Ukraine must be granted full membership in the European Union and receive clear security guarantees from NATO. Victory over Russia is a key condition for stability on the European continent. Former Polish President Andrzej Duda (2015–2025) stated this in his speech at the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum, which was held under the theme "Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?"He began his speech by recalling his visit to Kyiv on February 23, 2022, with the President of Lithuania, calling it a symbolic moment on the eve of the full-scale invasion. As the former president emphasized, this visit was not merely a gesture, but a commitment. "It was a promise that Poland, Lithuania, and the entire democratic world would stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine."Duda emphasized that Poland has fulfilled this commitment by opening its borders to millions of Ukrainians, becoming a key logistics hub for aid, and transferring its own weapons and military equipment to Ukraine. "We did this because we understood: Ukraine’s security is Poland’s security, and Poland’s security is the security of the entire transatlantic community," he stated.The former president stressed that the main task now is to continue supporting Ukraine in the war while also thinking about the future. "We must answer the question that will define the next decade right now: How can we help Ukraine rebuild what has been destroyed and become a sovereign, independent, modern European state?" he noted.Duda also emphasized the importance of Ukraine’s European integration. "Ukraine belongs to the European Union. For now, at least, it belongs spiritually, but its full membership is not a matter of charity. It is a matter of justice and strategic necessity," he stated.Duda also stressed that Ukraine must receive clear and reliable security guarantees. "Ukraine deserves clear and convincing security guarantees from NATO, along with a clear path to full membership, if that is the sovereign will of the Ukrainian people."He emphasized that the war must end with a just peace that restores Ukraine’s territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Duda also stressed the importance of holding Russia accountable and called for tougher sanctions to limit its military capabilities and energy revenues as much as possible.He emphasized that Russian energy projects, particularly Nord Stream, must be dismantled completely, as they create dependency and undermine Europe’s security.Regarding post-war reconstruction, Duda said Ukrainians should primarily carry it out. According to him, frozen Russian assets should be the main source of funding for reconstruction.In conclusion, Duda urged the international community not to succumb to "war fatigue". "There is no room for war fatigue. The free world will never get tired. We will support Ukraine until victory," he declared.He emphasized that Ukraine’s victory would be a victory for the entire democratic world and guarantee security in Europe, stating, "Ukraine’s victory will be a victory for the free world".Kyiv Security Forum (KSF) is an annual international event launched in 2007 on the initiative of Arseniy Yatsenyuk Open Ukraine Foundation. &nbsp;This year it is held on April 23-24.

Duda: Ukraine’s security is Poland’s security and that of the entire transatlantic community

The world must learn to live with constant threats and stop viewing them as a temporary phenomenon. A key mistake of democratic societies is their unwillingness to accept that evil is a permanent feature of international politics.James Sherr, Honorary Research Fellow at the Estonian International Center for Defense and Security, made this statement during the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum, which was held under the theme “Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?”"If we don't want darkness to prevail, we must stop fearing it. We must acknowledge that it is part of reality and that compromise or patience alone will not stop it," Sherr emphasized.The expert stressed that the main task today is not to eliminate the threat entirely, but to prevent its spread. He said that to accomplish this, it is crucial to clearly demonstrate to the aggressor the consequences of their actions. "We must show that aggression will have devastating consequences. Evil has its weaknesses, and we must exploit them,” he said.Speaking about Russia, Sherr noted that its current model is unstable. In particular, he assessed that the country’s economy is gradually being depleted and that the military system largely relies on coercion and corruption.He also expressed doubt about Russia’s ability to win the war against Ukraine, comparing the country to a system that collapses when it loses the ability to expand.The expert emphasized Ukraine’s evolving role, which he said is moving beyond the traditional notion of a state merely defending itself."Ukraine is demonstrating not only military resilience, but also innovation. It is effectively rethinking the nature of war itself and gradually becoming a provider of security solutions,” he emphasized.Sherr stressed that recognizing this role could be pivotal in strengthening Ukraine’s position on the international stage.Open Ukraine is an international foundation established by Arseniy Yatsenyuk in July 2007 to strengthen 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.

We must stop fearing the darkness and accept the existence of evil – James Sherr 

Western democracies are undergoing one of their deepest crises in recent decades, raising the risk that the global order could shift toward a more authoritarian and clannish model. This was stated by Brian Whitmore, non-resident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, at the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum “Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?”According to him, the current moment is not merely a geopolitical confrontation between states, but a deeper transformation within democratic systems themselves.“The United States is increasingly exhibiting traits we tend to associate with Russia — corruption, oligarchic structures, and clannishness. This speaks to the depth of the crisis and its systemic nature,” Whitmore noted.The analyst argued that current global developments are being driven by a struggle between liberal democracy and kleptocratic authoritarianism—what he describes as “state-level gangsterism.”In his view, this new global competition points toward a world governed more by the rule of might than by the rule of law. “We are drifting toward a model in which the strong do as they please, and the weak are forced to comply. This could become a new international order built on spheres of influence,” he emphasised.Whitmore also highlighted internal shifts within Western nations which bespeak the onset of a “new Cold War”. Unlike the 20th century, this confrontation is unfolding not only between states but within societies themselves.He cited political turbulence in the United States, Georgia, and France as examples, pointing to a rise in populism and intensifying struggles to control state institutions.The expert also warned that russian influence today extends far beyond traditional election interference. “It is not merely about political processes—it is an assault on the citizens' mindsets, the shaping of narratives, and the very perception of reality,” he noted.According to Whitmore, the world is currently in a period of transition, the direction of which remains uncertain. He emphasised that the outcome will depend on the ability of democratic societies to adapt and defend their core values.“Open Ukraine” is an international foundation established in 2007 on the initiative of Arseniy Yatsenyuk to strengthen Ukraine’s international standing. Each year, it organises the Kyiv Security Forum – Ukraine’s leading international platform for discussing war and peace – as well as the Youth Kyiv Security Forum, aimed at fostering a new generation of Ukrainian leaders.

“The world faces a new form of global confrontation” – Brian Whitmore

The main problem in Ukraine's fight against disinformation is the lack of a clear legal definition of the term itself. This prevents the state from responding promptly to the threat. Andrii Kovalenko, Head of the Center for Countering Disinformation of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (NSDC), made this statement during the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum, which was held under the theme “Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?”"The main problem in Ukraine right now is the lack of clear legislation that would simplify the definition of disinformation and how it manifests in the media or information space, enabling the state to act more promptly," Kovalenko emphasized.He added that there is ongoing communication with members of parliament on this issue. "A specific law is needed," stressed the Head of the NSDC’s Center for Countering Disinformation.&nbsp;According to Kovalenko, there should also be a legally prescribed algorithm for countering extremism since the main threat today is the recruitment of people through Telegram channels for carrying out sabotage.Kyiv Security Forum (KSF) is an annual international event launched in 2007 on the initiative of Arseniy Yatsenyuk Open Ukraine Foundation. This year it is held on April 23-24.

Head of the NSDC’s Center for Countering Disinformation: The lack of a legal definition of disinformation hinders effective countermeasures

The rapid development of artificial intelligence worldwide will lead to disinformation videos becoming so realistic that there will be no tools to verify them, posing a threat to electoral processes globally. Igor Rozkladai, Deputy Director of the Centre for Democracy and Rule of Law in Ukraine, made this statement during the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum, which was held under the theme "Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?""I think we will have videos that are so well made that there will be no tools to prove they are fake. And any elections will be under threat. This is already happening, we see the case of Romania, we see attempts at investigations in Moldova… And frankly, elections will be the first and most frequent target of disinformation," he said.Rozkladai also noted that in Ukraine, mobilization is a key target of disinformation. "This is also a threat. Zelenskyy has now also come under attack. I can see many videos targeting the president," he added. In addition, according to the Centre for Democracy and Rule of Law representative, another important issue in this context is antisemitism. "There are already many videos claiming that we have a ‘Jewish government’ or a government trying to rob Ukraine," he noted.At the same time, Rozkladai emphasized that there is no clear and straightforward solution to this problem. "Yes, we need to fight this phenomenon. But we also need to think about how to educate people," he added.In the expert's opinion, technologies will continue to evolve and the quality of such content will improve, but a "digital dictatorship" will not be a sustainable solution, as it does not work in the long term. "When there is no regulation, everyone can do whatever they want. And Telegram is a very good example," he added.Kyiv Security Forum (KSF) is an annual international event launched in 2007 on the initiative of Arseniy Yatsenyuk Open Ukraine Foundation. This year it is held on April 23-24.

Director of the Centre for Democracy and Rule of Law warns of global election threats due to rapid AI development