The highest-ranking military leaders of Allied Nations to the Ukrainian people and the Ukraine’s Defence Forces addressed Ukrainian Defenders and participants of the 17 th Annual Kyiv Security Forum “UA: UNITE AGAIN TO DEFEAT THE GLOBAL AGGRESSOR”, organized by the Arseniy Yatsenyuk Foundation “Open Ukraine”.

In particular, Admiral Guiseppe Cavo Dragone, Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, emphasized that the Ukrainian Defence Forces safeguard not only their families, they remain on the forefront of defending democracy and the right for freedom.

“On this day of remembrance, we honour the countless lives lost in the fight against tyranny and oppression during World War II. We remember the courage of those who stood for freedom. The same courage we recognize in you today. For over three years now, 1,169 days, you have defended your nation with unbreakable spirit and unwavering resolve. You are not just fighting for Ukraine, for your families and your fellow citizens. You are standing on the front lines of democracy and the right for freedom”. – he stressed.

Admiral Guiseppe Cavo Dragone also emphasized that “NATO sees your sacrifice”. “NATO hears your voice. And NATO stands with you. We pay tribute to your fallen heroes who have given everything in this struggle. Their memory strengthens our commitment to support Ukraine, to uphold our values.” – Admiral emphasized.

In her turn, General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff of Canada, argued that international support of Ukraine means unity of forces in countering authoritarian rule proliferation.

“Today, the 80 th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, is an opportunity for us to reflect on the end of World War II. A chance to reflect on how authoritarianism let loose on the world led to a conflict that caused devastation on a horrific scale. It is also a chance to reflect on how like-minded nations came together to defend allies' sovereignty and ultimately end the war. And then work together to build a new international order based on the rule of law and respect for human dignity. An international order that for the past 80 years has led to much security, stability, peace, and prosperity. Once again though, to our sorrow, the shadow of authoritarianism has cast its darkness over Europe. But once again, like-minded nations are working together to prevent its spread. This is showcased today at the 17 th Kyiv Security Forum”, - she said.

General Jennie Carignan also claimed that “no one is working harder or sacrificing more than the brave people of Ukraine and your courageous security forces”.

General Robert Brieger, Chairman of the European Union Military Committee, claimed that this year 17 th Kyiv Security Forum stands out as a unique one in many ways.

“First of all, we celebrate the 80th anniversary of victory in Europe, when we unite to remember the end of World War II in Europe. Secondly, we gather together in these critical times for Ukraine, Europe, and the whole democratic world to debate over the international order, democracy, and peace — all facing challenges or even existential threats”, - he mentioned.

According to General, “nobody knows better than Ukrainian citizens that it is not an abstract matter that is at stake. Today we discuss how to prevent World War III. At the same time, we are witnessing the fight of the Ukrainian people and the Armed Forces of Ukraine waging the war for civilization itself”, he stressed.

Admiral Sir Antony David Radakin, Chief of the Defence Staff, United Kingdom, argued that the battle that the Ukrainian people wage is the personification of moral and intellectual strength and clarity “that we all sincerely admire”.

“And this battle gives rise to a broad discussion across the whole Europe as well as worldwide, but primarily in Europe about our duty to safeguard, cherish, and protect all freedoms that we attained 80 years ago. This is not about things past and gone. This is the current reality. And this is Ukraine that remains today at the forefront clearly demonstrating why these freedoms are important and what happens when they are attacked, and what it means to protect them with ones’ lives”, - he said. Admiral also stressed that Great Britain will continue to support Ukraine.

General Michael Claesson, Chief of Defence of Sweden, stressed that Swedish authorities remain steadfast in their support of Ukraine, the latter counteracting Russian aggression. And volumes of support provided to Ukraine testify the strength of this support.

“As you know, our willingness and commitment to provide continued support remains steadfast, which is also manifested through the Swedish government's decisions on numerous support packages. The latest package is the largest military support package from Sweden to Ukraine to date. The total value of Sweden's military support to Ukraine now amounts to approximately 6.4 billion euros”, - he said. General also reminded the audience that the Swedish Government has been very clear about supporting Ukraine as long as it takes.

In his turn, General Eirik Kristoffersen, Chief of Defence of Norway, claimed that Norway’s support to Ukraine will be of a long-term nature, not only in the current fight against Russian aggression, but when rebuilding Ukraine as well.

“Norway will continue to support Ukraine, both in the short term in the current fight, but also in the medium term to regain territory, and in the long term to support the rehabilitation and the build-up of a new Ukraine Defence Force. We will also support the reconstruction of Ukraine after fighting is stopped”, - he emphasized.

General Frederik Vansina, Chief of Defence, Belgium, underlined that European support to Ukraine includes not only practical military assistance, but common understanding of threats and challenges as well.

“Belgium remains the staunch supporter of Ukraine. From the very start of the war, we have provided military, humanitarian and political assistance and continue doing so now. Still, support means much more than just weaponry and training. Support means also common vision of the threat that we all face. Ukraine happened to be at the forefront of the conflict between democracy and aggression, between international law and lawlessness”, - he emphasized.

The General also stressed that Russian aggression poses a threat not only to Ukraine. “Your battle is our battle. So, we need to remain united, decisive and ready to face challenges. As the Chief of Defence, I clearly understand that security in the 21st century means not only the might of a state. It also means partnership, trust, and readiness to act. Belgian Armed Forces will continue to closely interact with Allies from Europe and NATO, and with Ukraine to enforce stability and peace across our region,” – Frederik Vansina argued.

The Kyiv Security Forum, organized by the Arseniy Yatsenyuk's Open Ukraine Foundation, is the main platform in this country for discussing issues of war and peace, national and global security.