Interview with Ivanna Demianiuk

— Ms. Demianiuk, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. As a former Advisor to the Minister, you had a front-row seat to Ukraine's evolving international diplomacy. Looking back, what’s your assessment of the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia?

ID: Thank you for having me. This war is not just about territorial integrity—it’s a fight for the future of democracy in Eastern Europe. Russia’s invasion was an attempt to suppress Ukraine’s sovereign path toward European integration and democratic values. But what they underestimated was the strength, resilience, and unity of the Ukrainian people.

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— You've been deeply involved in Ukraine’s foreign relations. How do you see the role of the international community in this conflict?

ID: The role of our international partners has been both crucial and evolving. In the early months, many nations were caught off-guard, but the continued military, economic, and humanitarian support from the EU, the U.S., Canada, and others has been invaluable. However, we always emphasize that solidarity must translate into sustained action. Sanctions, arms deliveries, and diplomatic isolation of Russia must continue—and even intensify—if we are to protect not just Ukraine, but the international rule of law.

— There have been voices calling for negotiations and a ceasefire. What’s your perspective on that?

ID: We all want peace. But peace cannot mean surrender. Any negotiation must be on Ukraine’s terms, with full respect for our territorial integrity. Russia has violated every international norm—it cannot be rewarded for aggression. Ukrainians are not fighting just to freeze a conflict or to compromise—they’re fighting to win back their future.

— What has surprised you most about how Ukraine has navigated this war?

ID: Honestly, the unity. Internally, we’ve seen political factions put aside differences for the sake of the country. Internationally, Ukraine has emerged as a moral leader. President Zelenskyy, our diplomats, civil society—everyone has contributed to telling our story with clarity and purpose. I’ve always believed in Ukraine’s strength, but seeing it in action has been deeply moving.

— You’ve spoken about Ukraine’s European ambitions. Do you believe this war has brought Ukraine closer to the EU?

ID: Without question. We’ve shown we are ready to defend the very values the European Union was built on. And I think the EU recognizes that. The candidacy status was a historic step, and we are making strides in aligning with the ‘acquis communautaire’. The war has, ironically, accelerated our path. Ukraine no longer asks if we belong in Europe—we ask when.

— What do you think the West still doesn’t fully understand about Ukraine?

ID: I think some still view us as a buffer state, or a pawn in a geopolitical game. But Ukraine is not a victim—we are a sovereign, democratic nation with agency, culture, and ambition. We are not just fighting for survival; we are shaping a new chapter in European history.

— Looking ahead, what gives you hope?

ID: Our people. Every child who continues to study in a bomb shelter, every soldier who defends a frontline village, every diplomat who works day and night to secure alliances—they are my hope. Ukraine will win this war, not just with weapons, but with the unbreakable spirit of its people. And when we do, we will not only rebuild—we will rise stronger, freer, and more united than ever before.

— Ms. Demianiuk, thank you. Your words are powerful and inspiring.

ID: Thank you. It’s not just Ukraine’s story—it’s the world’s story. And we must all stand on the right side of history.