15 hours ago
Power of diplomacy and the pain of war in Ukraine and ME
By Mykola Dzhydzhora
Despite the ongoing full-scale war and daily air strikes against residential areas in Ukraine, we went to Istanbul earlier this month for a second round of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. During these difficult negotiations, we have managed with the notable Turkish mediation to reach specific humanitarian agreements.
One of the first practical results of these agreements was a new large-scale exchange of prisoners of war, which included individuals under the age of 25 and severely injured servicemen. This large-scale exchange is a crucial humanitarian act that has made it possible to release many of those who were previously considered missing.
The repatriation of deceased Ukrainian citizens, including servicemen, took place also earlier this month. Ukraine received 6,057 bodies in accordance with the Istanbul Agreements. Identification is ongoing, and families are finally being given the opportunity to bid farewell to their loved ones with dignity. This is a moral obligation of the state towards those who paid the ultimate price for Ukraine's freedom.
Another issue of moral importance is the issue of the Ukrainian children who were illegally deported or forcibly transferred from Ukraine to Russia. Ukraine has officially documented over 19,500 cases of the forcible removal of Ukrainian children, and insists on the return to Ukraine of all children in accordance with the Geneva Conventions on the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War.
As for the Palestine, Ukrainians deeply feel the pain of war and understand the suffering of civilians. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has repeatedly called on all parties to this conflict to strictly adhere to the international humanitarian law. Ukraine has always supported the two-state solution and advocates for the peaceful resolution of this conflict through political and diplomatic means.
In the context of the humanitarian program 'Grain from Ukraine', in March 2025, 553 tons of wheat flour were delivered to Palestine. At the end of February 2025 , a shipment of 400 tons of wheat flour was delivered to Syria, which, according to the World Food Program, will provide bread for almost 60,000 Syrians for 6 months.
As for Iran, Ukraine is closely following with concern the recent military confrontation. Aware of the risks of further destabilization of the entire region, we note that continued hostilities could have negative consequences for international security and global financial stability - particularly in oil markets. It is essential to avoid further destabilization of the region and prevent civilian casualties.
We are convinced that restoring peace and stability in the Middle East serves the interest not only of this region but also the entire international community including Ukraine.
Note: Mykola Dzhydzhora is the Charge d'Affaires of Ukraine to the State of Kuwait
