Russians have to ‘get out’ of Ukraine and stop ‘playing with lives’ around the world, says foreign minister

Developing strong ties with the 10-member regional bloc is among significant components of Ukraine’s Asia strategy, said Mr Kuleba.

Southeast Asia has traditionally been an important trade partner, he said, adding that ASEAN nations import a significant amount of Ukrainian corn and sunflower oil, and that many people from the region also study and live in Ukraine.

This is the first time Ukraine has been invited to the ASEAN Summit, and Mr Kuleba described the TAC treaty as a clear sign of support even as members try to maintain diplomacy with both his country and Russia.

“Coming from those countries of ASEAN, who are still trying to remain friends with both Russia and Ukraine and somehow sympathise (with) Russia, they still decided to support our accession which is a strong diplomatic symbol of support, and we appreciate it,” he said.

ASEAN does not have a unified position on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In October, three members – Thailand, Laos and Vietnam – abstained from a United Nations General Assembly vote to condemn Russia’s annexation of four eastern regions of Ukraine.

UKRAINE SEES INCREASING SUPPORT FROM ASEAN

Mr Kuleba said that while some ASEAN countries have deep traditions of engagement with Russia – which might be difficult to sway – he is already seeing change happening.

He cited Cambodia as an example. While it exercised abstention and neutrality during Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, the country switched its stance to supporting Ukraine after Russia’s invasion in February. 

“Cambodia understands the scourge of war, because this country went through so much suffering,” he said. “It makes perfect sense not because it likes Ukraine, but because it cares for its own country. It doesn’t want anyone in ASEAN region, or broader in Asia, to follow the pattern of Russian behaviour.”