Support for Ukraine, achieving a just peace and developing concrete solutions on the eve of the fourth anniversary of russia's full-scale invasion were the key topics of the meetings held by Ruslan Stefanchuk, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, on the sidelines of the OSCE PA Winter Session in Vienna.
During a meeting with members of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Austrian National Council, led by Petra Bayr, key steps to strengthen support for Ukraine, primarily in the security and humanitarian spheres, were discussed.
The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine reported on the daily russian terror – attacks on energy infrastructure, which in conditions of severe frost leave millions of people without light, heat and water. Ruslan Stefanchuk stressed that peace must be fair and based on international law, respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
Particular attention was paid to strengthening sanctions, controlling the supply of components for russian military equipment, and security guarantees to prevent new aggression.
The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine thanked Austria for its financial, humanitarian and political support, in particular for its initiatives to support Ukrainian children and its willingness to expand reconstruction projects. They also discussed Ukraine's European integration, interparliamentary cooperation and the involvement of Austrian businesses in the restoration of our state.
"There is a common understanding: Ukraine is defending not only itself but also the security of Europe, and this support must remain strong and consistent," Ruslan Stefanchuk emphasised.
During the meeting with Petra Bayr, President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, they discussed her upcoming visit to Ukraine and further consolidation of political support for our state. Petra Bayr stressed that ending the war and ensuring accountability for russian aggression is one of the key priorities of her presidency and noted Ukraine's active role in interparliamentary work.
Particular attention was paid to the compensation mechanism as an important element in restoring justice and bringing the aggressor to justice.
During a meeting with Danish Folketing Speaker Søren Gade, the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine discussed further joint steps to strengthen support for Ukraine.
"I am grateful to Denmark for its consistent solidarity and leadership — political forces in parliament remain united in their support for our state," said Ruslan Stefanchuk.
They also discussed the Danish model of support, security guarantees, Ukraine's path to the EU, and exchange visits.
"Peace must return to Ukrainian soil — but not at the cost of Ukraine's capitulation," emphasised the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada.