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The rapid development of technology directly affects the course of military operations. In the future, this will lead to areas being dominated by robots rather than soldiers.Roman Kostenko, Secretary of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Committee on National Security, Defense and Intelligence and Member of the 9th Convocation of the Ukrainian Parliament, spoke about this during the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".ЄTechnology is automating warfare. Humans will still play a key role, but in the future, there will be large gray zones, 20–30 km deep, where drones will fly and no living creatures will exist. Our task now is to ensure that we control these areas," he said.Roman Kostenko also drew attention to the rapid developments in this area that directly affect the changing situation on the front lines.Technology is very important. When we compare the war in 2022 with the war in 2024, we notice completely different approaches, principles, and consequences. Technology is advancing rapidly. When we talk about technology, we're not just using a buzzword. We're talking about tools like REBs, drones, and technology-based reconnaissance. These tools are saving the lives of civilians and soldiers on the battlefield while helping to preserve our infrastructure," the MP emphasized.Roman Kostenko assesses the current situation from both a military and a parliamentary perspective."In Parliament, we are eliminating the bureaucracy between technology manufacturers and military personnel who use the technology directly. Yesterday, two bills that I introduced were voted on to specifically improve this situation," he emphasized.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;

The rapid development of technology directly affects the course of military operations. In the future, this will lead to areas being dominated by robots rather than soldiers.

Roman Kostenko: Technology is automating warfare

"After victory, Ukrainian youth must become the foundation of the Ukrainian state. Therefore, it is important to organize discussion and idea-exchange platforms," Arseniy Yatsenyuk, Prime Minister of Ukraine (2014-2016) and Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, said in his welcoming speech at the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE"."After victory, Ukrainian youth must become the foundation of the Ukrainian state. Therefore, it is important to organize discussion and idea-exchange platforms," Arseniy Yatsenyuk, Prime Minister of Ukraine (2014-2016) and Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, said in his welcoming speech at the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE"."First and foremost, Ukraine is its people. Ukraine is each and every one of you. We don't want you to wrap yourselves in 'bubbles' created by new technologies, such as social networks and messaging apps. We want you to connect with each other, share your visions and problems, and discuss ways to solve them. We want you to become the foundation of the country after victory," he stated.Yatsenyuk also noted that young people were the driving force behind all democratic protests and processes in Ukraine."We would not be able to meet here today if it weren't for young people like you who took to the streets not only on Maidan, but also during the Revolution on Granite, the 2004 Orange Revolution, and the 2013 Revolution of Dignity. We would not be here if it weren't for young people who went to the front lines to defend the country. But we have these young people. We have a strong nation. We have the code of the Ukrainian nation. We have the code of victory," the former Prime Minister emphasized. Addressing the forum participants, he said, "I know that each of you will succeed, just as our country will".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.This year's event is supported by the NATO Representation in Ukraine and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation in partnership with the Tech Force in UA association.<o:p></o:p>

"After victory, Ukrainian youth must become the foundation of the Ukrainian state. Therefore, it is important to organize discussion and idea-exchange platforms," Arseniy Yatsenyuk, Prime Minister of Ukraine (2014-2016) and Chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum, said in his welcoming speech at the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".

"We don't want you to wrap yourselves in 'bubbles'. Youth is the foundation of the Ukrainian state," Arseniy Yatsenyuk in his address to the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum participants.

The security partnership between Ukraine and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is strong and stable, growing stronger every day. The Acting Head of the NATO Representation in Ukraine Joseph Dobbs made this statement during the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".Dobbs added that the NATO Secretary General has visited Ukraine twice this year and regularly communicates with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Recent meetings of foreign ministers confirmed that Ukraine will continue to receive support for as long as necessary.Joseph Dobbs recalled that at the NATO summit, it was made clear that Ukraine's security directly strengthens the security of the Euro-Atlantic region."At the summit in The Hague, it was clearly stated that your security contributes to our security. Our support will continue without restrictions — both to fight the enemy today and to deter him tomorrow," the Alliance representative added.He also noted the work of NATO's military structures, which coordinate the provision of assistance, train Ukrainian military personnel, and provide necessary equipment.The NATO representative confirmed that Ukraine will receive €1 billion to support key areas, including defense needs, technology development, assistance for military veterans, and hospital support."This is more than just practical financial support. It is also a strong political signal," emphasized Joseph Dobbs.He stressed that the NATO Representative Office in Kyiv is working on urgent tasks as well as medium- and long-term projects. The main areas are reforms, the transformation of public administration, and the development of defense capabilities and technologies. "We are working closely with the Cabinet of Ministers and other institutions implementing reforms. This includes human rights, which are fundamental to your future," Joseph Dobbs noted.He also emphasized the important contributions of the large community of NATO advisors and experts who work in defense, innovation, and military interoperability. "We support Ukrainian companies and their ability to grow. We acknowledge the exceptional level of innovation in your country," he said, encouraging Ukrainians to stay informed about NATO job opportunities, as the Alliance consistently seeks to hire specialists from Ukraine.Joseph Dobbs also emphasized that Ukraine is providing the world with valuable lessons, not just receiving assistance. "Of course, we can help you, but we also learn a lot from you. Your experience in innovation sets an example for the whole world,” he stressed.The NATO representative also mentioned the joint efforts in analysis, training, and learning from Russian aggression. He cited a recent initiative in which teams are working together to solve problems related to drones and defense systems as an example of this.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.This year's event is supported by the NATO Representation in Ukraine and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation in partnership with the Tech Force in UA association.

The security partnership between Ukraine and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is strong and stable, growing stronger every day. The Acting Head of the NATO Representation in Ukraine Joseph Dobbs made this statement during the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".

"NATO stands firmly behind Ukraine," Acting Head of the NATO Representation in Ukraine

Ukraine's cooperation with DIANA (Defense Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic) will allow Ukrainian companies to visit test centers and acceleration platforms in Alliance member countries.James Appathurai, Interim Managing Director of the NATO Defence Innovation Accelerator, announced this during the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE"."This is the first time we have a mandate to cooperate with a non-NATO member partner. We have begun negotiating with the Ukrainian government. We expect to quickly reach an agreement on areas of cooperation between DIANA and the government," Appathurai said.Appathurai is confident that a quick agreement will be reached that "allows Ukrainian companies to work with DIANA and visit its testing centers and acceleration sites".He emphasized the importance of finding, enhancing, incorporating, and adapting new technologies on the battlefield so that Ukraine can become self-sufficient.The event is supported by the NATO Representation in Ukraine and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation in partnership with the Tech Force in UA association.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;

"This is the first time we have a mandate to cooperate with a non-NATO member partner. We have begun negotiating with the Ukrainian government. We expect to quickly reach an agreement on areas of cooperation between DIANA and the government," Appathurai said.

Appathurai hopes for DIANA to cooperate with Ukraine

Modern warfare requires innovation, a clear understanding of national identity, and a realistic approach to technological and military training, as well as a sense of responsibility among the younger generation.Yurii Fedorenko, commander of the 429th Separate Regiment of Unmanned Systems “ACHILLES” and member of the Kyiv City Council, made these statements during the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".Look around. There are many young people, but hardly any men. Isn't this the technology the enemy uses – to force the male population to leave by age 22? Young people are afraid of war because no one explains that it presents both risks and opportunities. It is an opportunity to protect what is most precious by taking up arms. Bismarck once said that the enemy advances where the priests have lost. Today, the enemy is advancing where we have lost – in the realms of meaning and memory," Yurii mentioned.When discussing the national idea, Yuriy Fedorenko emphasized that it has yet to be formulated. The younger generation should take on this task, he believes. "What is the Ukrainian national idea? Everyone will have their own answer. It has not yet been formulated. It is now the task of your generation to create a formula that everyone will know," the commander noted.He also addressed the issue of partnership assistance and the realistic assessment of allies' combat capabilities, drawing a parallel between training an athlete and training the army. "Everyone loves Usyk (boxer Oleksandr Usyk – ed. note). But could you defeat Tyson Fury if you watched his training sessions, analyzed his tactics, and reviewed his fights? No. Training is necessary. The same applies to partners. Observing war does not mean being prepared to fight in such conditions."In this context, he emphasized the need to develop training mechanisms that would allow Western officers to gain real experience. "If our partners cannot provide a military contingent, we must find opportunities and resources to involve other military structures that can perform combat tasks for compensation. This will allow your officers to test tactics and be as prepared as possible."The military cited the example of Russia and North Korea, "Russia involved North Korea, not because it lacks manpower. It's an agreement that allows their officers to gain experience fighting in Ukraine. At the same time, NATO countries do not have such experience because they are observers.”"To become champions, you have to train with the best. Technology is important, but so are having a clear national idea, raising a strong young generation, and remembering our heroes," the military 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.

Modern warfare requires innovation, a clear understanding of national identity, and a realistic approach to technological and military training, as well as a sense of responsibility among the younger generation.

Victory requires not only technology, but also a clear Ukrainian idea – Yurii Fedorenko, commander of the ACHILLES regiment

Despite the rapid development of military technology, the individual soldier remains the primary factor in Ukraine's defensive capabilities on the battlefield.Mykyta “Raz-Dva” Nadtochii, the Deputy Commander of the 1st Azov Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine, said this at the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".Mykyta Nadtochii acknowledged the importance of technological development, yet emphasized that Ukraine will lose if there are no soldiers on the battlefield. "Technology is no longer what it was in 2014 or 2022. Now, there are platforms, robotic systems, and strike drones. We can strike deep into the enemy's rear. However, if there are no soldiers on the battlefield, we will lose. Robots can deliver supplies, provide support, and even fight. Still, soldiers are the ones who see the enemy up close and have to shoot at them. A soldier-centric approach should be the foundation. Without it, we simply cannot win," he stressed.Separately, the Deputy Commander commented on the ideological foundations of the Russian army. "Everything there is based on fear. If you don't follow orders, you'll end up where the Russian soldiers end up with assault sticks. It's not about a lack of personnel. It's about the system. Russia has always positioned itself as an expansionist state. Its propaganda constantly touts Russia as strong and powerful, incapable of losing. Their prisoners repeat the same narratives."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;

Despite the rapid development of military technology, the individual soldier remains the primary factor in Ukraine's defensive capabilities on the battlefield.
Mykyta “Raz-Dva” Nadtochii, the Deputy Commander of the 1st Azov Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine, said this at the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".

No technology will bring victory without a soldier-centric approach – Deputy Commander of the Azov Corps

The European Commission is working with Ukraine to develop its cyber capabilities and is ready to provide access to the Cybersecurity Reserve.Henna Virkkunen, the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Technological Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, announced this at the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE"."My services and I personally support Ukraine in overcoming the challenges posed by Russia's aggressive war, especially those related to technology and cybersecurity. We are collaborating with Ukraine to bolster its cyber capabilities, particularly through a partnership between the EU Agency for Cybersecurity and the relevant Ukrainian agency. This is a mutually beneficial collaboration, as the EU can learn from Ukraine's experience in countering cyber threats. We are also ready to facilitate Ukraine's access to the EU Cybersecurity Reserve for rapid response and immediate recovery.The EC Vice-President also stressed that another important area of cooperation is high-performance computing and artificial intelligence."We also support Ukraine's integration into the digital single market. We will soon welcome Ukraine into the EU roaming area. We look forward to Ukraine's participation in our work on the EU digital wallet, and we support Ukraine's swift integration into the EU legal framework for digital services and markets. We promote Ukraine's participation in EU-funded digital programs," she said.Henna Virkkunen assured that these joint efforts aim to create a sovereign and prosperous Ukraine that is "capable of providing its youth and all citizens with the security and opportunities they dream of and deserve".This year's event is supported by the NATO Representation in Ukraine and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation in partnership with the Tech Force in UA association.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;

The European Commission is working with Ukraine to develop its cyber capabilities and is ready to provide access to the Cybersecurity Reserve.
Henna Virkkunen, the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Technological Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, announced this at the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".

Henna Virkkunen: European Commission ready to facilitate Ukraine's access to EU Cybersecurity Reserve

For Ukraine to win, it is necessary to scale technology and develop new means of destruction.Mykola “Makar” Zinkevych, Commander of the Unit of Ground-Based Robotic Strike Systems NC-13 of the 3rd Assault Brigade, stated this at the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE"."In reality, neither the person who invents the technology nor the person who figures out how to apply it wins. Instead, the winner is the person who can continuously scale technology and run long distances," he said. Mykola Zinkevych emphasized the importance of developing new technologies and weapons."If we fall behind in technology, scale, and quantity, we will not achieve victory," he added.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.

For Ukraine to win, it is necessary to scale technology and develop new means of destruction. Mykola “Makar” Zinkevych, Commander of the Unit of Ground-Based Robotic Strike Systems NC-13 of the 3rd Assault Brigade, stated this at the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".

The winner is the one who scales technology – Commander of the NC13 UGV Unit

"I see no reason for a fair and lasting peace to be concluded between Ukraine and russia with the mediation of the United States. russia is seeking a fictitious ‘peace’ to occupy Ukrainian territory," said the KSF Chairman Arseniy Yatsenyuk, speaking to journalists at a briefing during the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum being held in the capital.He called these "negotiations" "creeping and capitulatory"."Putin has not changed any of his ultimate goals. His goal is the destruction of the Ukrainian state," the KSF Chairman emphasized.According to Yatsenyuk, the most important thing now is a united stance from the U.S., Europe, and Ukraine. "The russians actually ousted the EU and NATO from the negotiations. It is the European Union that should be responsible for conducting these negotiations."The next steps involve strengthening Ukraine's negotiating position. russia must see that the U.S. President is serious about supporting Ukraine. Congress must also pass a resolution to provide Ukraine with additional financial and military support.Additionally, the KSF Chairman said that the European Union should stop having "rather strange discussions" about using russian sovereign assets to support Ukraine. "Currently, there is no other mechanism in the EU, and it is impossible to win a war without money."The KSF Chairman mentioned that pressuring russia and its allies and supporters with secondary sanctions is necessary. This refers particularly to China and India, which purchase 85% of russian oil, as well as a number of countries that help russia circumvent sanctions."Without this, there will be no peace. Without this, russia will continue to feign interest in peace talks and Ukraine's negotiating position will weaken,” Arseniy Yatsenyuk emphasized.&nbsp;

"I see no reason for a fair and lasting peace to be concluded between Ukraine and russia with the mediation of the United States. russia is seeking a fictitious ‘peace’ to occupy Ukrainian territory," said the KSF Chairman Arseniy Yatsenyuk, speaking to journalists at a briefing during the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum being held in the capital.
He called these "negotiations" "creeping and capitulatory".  
"Putin has not changed any of his ultimate goals. His goal is the destruction of the Ukrainian state," the KSF Chairman emphasized.
According to Yatsenyuk, the most important thing now is a united stance from the U.S., Europe, and Ukraine. "The russians actually ousted the EU and NATO from the negotiations. It is the European Union that should be responsible for conducting these negotiations."
The next steps involve strengthening Ukraine's negotiating position. russia must see that the U.S. President is serious about supporting Ukraine. Congress must also pass a resolution to provide Ukraine with additional financial and military support.
Additionally, the KSF Chairman said that the European Union should stop having "rather strange discussions" about using russian sovereign assets to support Ukraine. "Currently, there is no other mechanism in the EU, and it is impossible to win a war without money."
The KSF Chairman mentioned that pressuring russia and its allies and supporters with secondary sanctions is necessary. This refers particularly to China and India, which purchase 85% of russian oil, as well as a number of countries that help russia circumvent sanctions.
"Without this, there will be no peace. Without this, russia will continue to feign interest in peace talks and Ukraine's negotiating position will weaken,” Arseniy Yatsenyuk emphasized. 

"Creeping and capitulatory" – Arseniy Yatsenyuk on "peace negotiations" at the Kyiv Youth Security Forum 

Ukraine currently boasts the world's most advanced capabilities for detecting drones and other airborne threats. The country is a key security partner for Europe.Martin Åberg, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Sweden to Ukraine, made this statement during the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".He added that European Union countries should actively cooperate with Ukraine and learn from its experience with anti-drone technology. The EU must develop not only detection methods, but also tools to determine the origin of drones, as the situation often remains unclear."We must also be able to identify the owner of the equipment. Often, the picture is blurred. For instance, the drones in Poland are the same as those flying over Ukraine. There are Chinese drones over our country, and it is unclear who sent them. Therefore, we must cooperate to improve our ability to detect these drones and understand who is behind these attacks," the diplomat noted.&nbsp;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.

Ukraine currently boasts the world's most advanced capabilities for detecting drones and other airborne threats. The country is a key security partner for Europe. Martin Åberg, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Sweden to Ukraine, made this statement during the 11th Kyiv Youth Security Forum "GEN W²: CODING THE FUTURE".