On 18 December 2021, the interlocutors discussed the security situation, in particular at the borders of Ukraine, as well as specific areas of cooperation between Ukraine and Denmark to strengthen Ukraine’s defence capabilities.
Olha Stefanishyna thanked Denmark for its clear position on Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and its support for the reform process in Ukraine, particularly in the security and defence sectors.
The Deputy Prime Minister noted the strengthening of bilateral contacts between two countries over the past year. In particular, she stressed that the visit of the Danish Minister of Defence to Kyiv is a powerful sign of solidarity between Denmark and the Nordic countries with Ukraine against the background of aggressive actions and rhetoric of the Kremlin.
“Ukraine is already part of the transatlantic security architecture. Our country is confidently moving towards integration into Euro-Atlantic security structures, achieving interoperability with NATO member states. The latest publications of the Russian Foreign Ministry are nothing but a manifestation of its despair. Today, NATO’s unity with Ukraine is stronger than ever,” she said.
Olha Stefanishyna stressed the need for a unified and clear international response to Russia’s blackmail against the entire Euro-Atlantic region. In this context, she paid special attention to the preparation of a new NATO Strategic Concept.
According to her, “Russia is raising its stakes and testing the international community for resilience. That is why Ukraine and NATO must make efforts to stabilize the situation on the international arena. I think the new NATO Strategic Concept can play a key role in this process.”
Olha Stefanishyna thanked the Danish partners for their assistance in the field of defence and security which will be provided under the “Peace and Stabilization Program" for 2022-2025, as well as for Denmark’s contribution to NATO Trust Funds.
For her part, Trine Bramsen reaffirmed Denmark’s support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine and for security and defence reforms that bring Ukraine closer to NATO standards.
Photo Credit: Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine