Ukraine Asks Thailand for Support as War Enters Fifth Year

Five years after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the war in the heart of Europe continues with no clear end in sight. Ukraine is appealing to Thailand for support in its ongoing struggle, emphasizing the importance of defending democracy and fundamental human rights. During a visit to Kyiv in early September 2026, a Khaosod English reporter interviewed senior Ukrainian Foreign Ministry officials. Mariana Betsa, Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine, along with Zhanna Leshchynska, Director-General of the Department of Asia and Pacific, and Heorhii Tykhyi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, discussed the current situation and Ukraine's requests to the international community. Betsa described the situation as "extremely difficult," noting that Russia, unable to achieve significant territorial gains on the battlefield, has escalated attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure. She stated that these attacks aim to intimidate civilians, create psychological pressure, and sow chaos and panic, particularly as winter approaches. Despite daily attacks, Ukraine remains resilient and firm in its stance. "It is not easy because there are attacks every day, and this should not become the new normal. But Ukraine is very resilient and stands firm," Betsa stated. Ukraine's most urgent need is for air defense systems and interceptors. Russia is increasingly employing combined attacks involving drones, various missile trajectories, and ballistic missiles, straining Ukraine's air defense capabilities. Betsa also highlighted Russia's attacks in the Black Sea, which have implications for global food security due to Ukraine's role as a major food exporter. She pointed out that support from Iran and North Korea to Russia indicates the war's impact extends beyond Europe to the Indo-Pacific region. Ukraine's key requests to the international community include military support, particularly air defense systems; political pressure on Russia to end the war, with an immediate, unconditional ceasefire as a prerequisite for negotiations. Betsa mentioned that Ukraine had agreed to a proposal for an immediate, unconditional, and comprehensive ceasefire lasting at least 30 days, but Russia had not agreed. Second, Ukraine seeks stronger sanctions against Russia, urging Europe, the United States, Australia, Canada, and other countries to coordinate more robust measures, particularly targeting the shadow fleet, the banking sector, and loopholes used by Russia to evade sanctions. Third, Ukraine demands accountability for crimes committed during the war. Betsa warned that a lack of accountability for Russia's aggression, war crimes, and crimes against humanity could set a dangerous precedent that affects other countries. A particularly strong emphasis was placed on the fate of Ukrainian children. Betsa stated that over 20,000 children have been taken to Russia, while Ukraine has managed to bring back over 2,200. She expressed gratitude to Global South countries, particularly Qatar, for their mediation efforts, and also referenced Melania Trump's role in facilitating contacts concerning Ukrainian children. Ukraine alleges that children remaining in Russia are being subjected to ideological indoctrination and militarization, making their safe return a critical "red line." In addition to children, Ukraine also raised the issue of prisoners of war and detained civilians, citing evidence of torture, including sexual torture and extrajudicial killings. Efforts are underway to hold Russia accountable through international mechanisms like the International Criminal Court and a potential special tribunal for the crime of aggression. Regarding peace negotiations, Ukraine desires peace but insists that talks must occur on terms acceptable to Ukraine. Core "red lines" include the preservation of territorial integrity under international law, the return of civilians, prisoners of war, and children, and robust security guarantees to prevent future aggression. Ukraine maintains it will never recognize Russian annexation of its territories. Betsa stated that after a ceasefire and verification mechanism are in place, security guarantees should be discussed, potentially involving European security personnel on the ground, though she noted it is too early to determine the final model. Information Source: Khaosod English