Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has called on the European Union to assist in establishing a mutual cessation of strikes on airports in both Russia and Ukraine. This proposal was made during a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels.
Sybiha indicated that Ukraine may require a new role for Europe in peace negotiations, as the diplomatic efforts led by the United States have slowed. He noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown little willingness to engage in broader agreements to end the conflict.
“Perhaps we will try to resolve or achieve what is called an ‘airport truce,'” he stated. The concept involves both parties refraining from attacking airports. Sybiha expressed confidence that Russia might also be interested in such an arrangement, given that major Russian airports are increasingly targeted by Ukrainian long-range strikes.
The Ukrainian minister suggested that European partners could establish a separate platform or special group to discuss this ceasefire format. He mentioned that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has already discussed this idea with several European leaders.
However, Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine is not proposing for Europe to replace the United States in negotiations. “This should be a complementary direction—not a substitute, not an alternative,” he clarified, adding that Europe must present a unified voice.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has proposed a mutual ceasefire on airport strikes to the EU, seeking a new role for Europe in stalled peace negotiations. He emphasized that this initiative should complement existing diplomatic efforts led by the United States.