During the conversation, the parties raised issues of escalation of the situation in eastern Ukraine and in the Black Sea, formulating EU Strategy on Russia, implementation of European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations of Ukraine, consideration of Ukraine’s interests and position during the forthcoming NATO summit (14 June), Ukraine’s progress along the path of reforms, as well as Denmark’s participation in the Ukraine Reform Conference which will be held on 7-8 July.
Olha Stefanishyna thanked Jeppe Kofod for consistent support of Ukraine’s transformation aimed at European integration, Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as for Denmark’s position regarding Russia’s Nord Stream 2 geopolitical project and the threats posed by it. In addition, she stressed that Russia’s military build-up along the Ukrainian border was a clear signal to the EU and NATO how important is to raise “the price” the Kremlin will have to pay in the event of further aggression against Ukraine.
The Deputy Prime Minister noted that Russia is testing the international community and Western democracy for resilience. That is why, together with our partners, Ukraine must fundamentally reconsider its strategy towards Russia as a long-term threat to European and world security and develop a deterrence mechanism.
For his part, Jeppe Kofod stressed the importance of continuing ambitious reforms and consistent Denmark’s support for Ukraine along the way. In particular, the interlocutors discussed the implementation of judicial reform, strengthening the independence and effectiveness of anti-corruption institutions, since Denmark supports the democratic development of Ukraine by leading the EU Anti-Corruption Initiative in Ukraine.
Olha Stefanishyna emphasized that Ukraine counts on Denmark’s strong support for Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic perspective, as well as on cooperation in counteracting the completion and commissioning of Nord Stream 2.
The Minister assured the Deputy Prime Minister of his readiness to consolidate further support of Ukraine in the fight against Russian aggression and noted that a strong reformed Ukraine is the best way to ensure resilience from external vulnerabilities and negative influences.