Appeal of the Ukrainian World Congress and the European Congress of Ukrainians to World Leaders

February 24, 2025 – Today, as the world marks the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and preparations for negotiations on ending the war begin, we remind everyone: the future of Ukraine and the entire democratic world depends on the ability to defend justice and freedom.

The Ukrainian World Congress and the European Congress of Ukrainians call on world leaders to uphold these fundamental principles in any discussions regarding war and peace in Ukraine:

1. Ukraine’s borders are inviolable. Any recognition of the annexation of Ukrainian territories is unacceptable.

2. Peace must be lasting. Ukraine requires real, solid security guarantees. No repetition of the Budapest Memorandum!

3. Ukraine needs reliable defense capabilities. Ukraine’s international partners must commit to financial obligations to strengthen and sustain Ukraine’s army and defense industry, ensuring peace through strength.

4. Ukraine’s accession to the EU and NATO is a key element of a long-term security solution.

5. Russia must bear full responsibility for its crimes of aggression. Russia must be forced to take on full financial responsibility for rebuilding Ukraine and paying reparations for destroyed cities, the victims and families of those killed, woundedand tortured, and other all other war crimes.

6. An international war crimes tribunal for Russia. The organizers and perpetrators of war crimes, including Russia’s top leadership, must be brought before an international tribunal and held fully criminally accountable for the crimes of genocide, aggression, and crimes against humanity.

7. Ukraine’s legitimate government. President Zelenskyy and the Verkhovna Rada have a democratic mandate from the Ukrainian people to represent Ukraine’s position.

8. Elections in Ukraine must take place only after the necessary conditions are established—the end of the war and full adherence to the Constitution of Ukraine.

9. Nothing about Ukraine and Europe without Ukraine and Europe. Ukraine and the EU must be direct participants in negotiations to end the war.

The future of Ukraine is the future of Europe. We call on world leaders to stand firmly with Ukraine in its fight for freedom, justice, and peace!

All of these elements are critical to secure a just and lasting peace for Ukraine, Europe and all the world!

Ukrainian World Congress
European Congress of Ukrainians