Ukraine is making headway in efforts to secure legally binding security guarantees from the United States and European allies, according to First Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya.
The talks, described as “intense and pragmatic,” form part of Kyiv’s wider bid to end the war with Russia and deter future aggression.
Speaking to Reuters, Kyslytsya said a bilateral pact with Washington was of particular importance, hailing President Donald Trump’s recent pledge to support Ukraine’s defence as a “breakthrough moment”.
He stressed that the US role was vital, not only for logistical and air support but also for intelligence that would underpin long-term security.
Negotiations with around 30 countries in the so-called “coalition of the willing” are under way, with proposals ranging from a stronger Ukrainian army to the deployment of foreign troops, financing for weaponry and intelligence sharing.
Kyiv is pushing for agreements that would be ratified by national parliaments to ensure credibility.
While progress has been made, Kyslytsya acknowledged that differences remain over the scope of commitments. “This very intense period of exchange of views allows us to have a much better understanding of who is willing to do what and who is capable of doing what,” he said.
He also issued a pointed warning to European governments, urging them to explain to voters why Ukraine’s defence is tied directly to the continent’s security. “If Europeans are serious, they have to take difficult decisions,” he said.
The push for guarantees comes as Russian forces continue to press forward in the east and south, capturing ground around key garrison towns. Despite growing public exhaustion with the conflict, polls suggest Ukrainians remain overwhelmingly opposed to concessions on occupied land.
