Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Ihor Zhovkva recently held a call with the advisor to the Portuguese prime minister, Jorge Monteiro, to discuss the potential for a bilateral security agreement between Ukraine and Portugal. This agreement would be in line with similar agreements that Ukraine has already signed with eight other countries, including Finland, the U.K., Germany, France, Denmark, Canada, Italy, and the Netherlands. These agreements aim to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend against Russian aggression, a commitment made by the Group of Seven (G7) nations last July. During the call, both parties agreed to start negotiations on the agreement soon, and discussed Ukraine’s defense needs and the current situation on the front lines.
Ukraine’s Peace Formula and its aspirations to join the European Union and NATO were also key topics of discussion during the call. Zhovkva expressed appreciation for Portugal’s contributions to coalitions involving tank, aviation, and maritime capabilities, and emphasized the importance of increasing military assistance to Ukraine. Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro recently spoke with President Volodymyr Zelensky, and both leaders agreed to begin the preparation of a bilateral security agreement between Kyiv and Lisbon. This marks a significant step in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities and further solidifying its partnership with Portugal.
In addition to discussions with Portugal, Ukrainian and Lithuanian officials recently held a meeting to outline key points and a schedule for the preparation of a bilateral security agreement between the two countries. This highlights the commitment of Ukraine to engage with a range of international partners to enhance its security and defense capabilities. The meeting focused on the importance of cooperation in the face of ongoing threats, particularly from Russian aggression. By establishing these bilateral agreements, Ukraine is working to build a strong network of allies who share a commitment to supporting its sovereignty and security.
The bilateral security agreements with countries like Portugal and Lithuania are based on a shared commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s ability to resist aggression and uphold its sovereignty. By engaging in negotiations and discussions with a range of international partners, Ukraine is building a network of support that will enhance its defense capabilities and help it navigate complex geopolitical challenges. The agreements also reflect Ukraine’s broader aspirations to integrate with European institutions like the EU and NATO, signaling its commitment to Euro-Atlantic security and cooperation. These efforts demonstrate Ukraine’s proactive approach to securing its borders and safeguarding its interests in a volatile region.
The ongoing dialogue between Ukraine and its international partners underscores the importance of cooperation and solidarity in the face of regional security challenges. By engaging with countries like Portugal and Lithuania, Ukraine is strengthening its position on the world stage and building relationships that will enhance its security and stability. The commitment to negotiating bilateral security agreements demonstrates a shared commitment to upholding international norms and safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty. As Ukraine continues to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics, these agreements will play a crucial role in shaping its security environment and maintaining its ability to defend itself against external threats.
