Ukrainians are hopeful for the end of the active phase of the war. Will 2025 be the year of peace? Key statements from WEF 2025.

The ongoing war in Ukraine, now in its fourth year, emerged as a central theme at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Simultaneously, the issues of supporting Ukraine and the prospects for peace negotiations are gaining increasing importance.

This was discussed at the WEF 2025 in Davos.

“We must increase pressure on Russia and compel it to come to the negotiating table. U.S. leadership, deeper European engagement, and strengthening Ukraine are essential. We are ready to do our homework,” stated Andriy Sybiga, Ukraine's Foreign Minister.

Negotiations under the pressure of war

Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs noted that discussions about a peace agreement remain far from reality due to Russia's unwillingness to engage in dialogue. “We have not even come close to a real political process. The problem is that Russia is not willing to sit down at the negotiating table. Without this, there can be no progress,” Rinkēvičs said.

Julia Svyrydenko, Ukraine's Minister of Economy, emphasized the economic realities of the war. “In 2022, Ukraine's GDP fell by over 30%. In 2023, we managed to achieve a growth of 5%, and in 2024, 3.6%. This year, we expect to continue the positive trend, but the war still inflicts serious blows,” she reported.

Svyrydenko also highlighted the need to utilize frozen Russian assets: “The 300 billion euros frozen in Russian assets must work for Ukraine. This will not only provide financial support but also serve as a political tool to weaken Russia.”

Sanctions and military support

Participants in the discussion called for continued sanctions pressure on Russia. “There has been much criticism regarding the implementation of sanctions, but we must not stop. On the contrary, now is the time to strengthen sanctions and ensure that Russia cannot continue its aggression,” noted Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament.

Andriy Sybiga stressed that strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities remains a top priority. “We need a deterrence package that includes additional weapons, financial support, and pressure on Russia through sanctions. These are the three key elements for stabilizing the situation on the battlefield,” he stated.

The role of the U.S. and European unity

Donald Trump, whose recent statements have attracted attention, faced criticism for possibly reducing U.S. support for Ukraine. However, experts emphasize that transatlantic unity remains crucial.

“We cannot allow Ukraine to fight this war with one hand tied behind its back. This is not only a matter of Europe's security but also of the global order. Russia has no right to control Kyiv,” Metsola emphasized.

Radosław Sikorski, the former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Poland, reminded about the importance of long-term financial support: “What we are providing to Ukraine now should be sufficient for this year. However, we need to be prepared for a prolonged struggle. Frozen Russian assets could become a key source of funding.”

The future of Ukraine: a year of change or a year of war?

Despite the challenges, Ukrainian leadership is confident that 2025 could be a turning point. “Not just peace, but sustainable peace is our goal. It must guarantee that Russia cannot invade again,” Svyrydenko stated.

Background. Previously, Mind reported that the panel in Davos discussed the fragility of financial integration, the risks of sanctions, and the future of cooperation amid global challenges.