Ukraine’s Diplomatic Standoff: Sergiy Kyslytsya’s Role

In February 2022, as Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Sergiy Olehovych Kyslytsya stood in New York as Ukraine’s ambassador to the United Nations. He faced his Russian counterpart, Vasily Nebenzya, with firm resolve. “There is no purgatory for war criminals,” Kyslytsya declared. “They go straight to hell, ambassador.”

This invasion disrupted diplomatic ties between Kyiv and Moscow. Kyslytsya’s role at the U.N. became unique, as he was one of the few Ukrainian diplomats engaging directly with Russian counterparts. “My fellow ambassadors in other capitals would not talk to them,” he noted. By the time he joined peace talks, he had learned to control his emotions and attitude.

Kyslytsya joined the Ukrainian negotiations team and played a crucial role. Talks mediated by the U.S. have faltered since early this year, with American focus shifting. Despite this, Ukraine maintains dialogue with both American and Russian envoys. “Dialogue is active and ongoing,” Kyslytsya asserts.

In Kyiv, within the well-guarded presidential compound, Kyslytsya serves as the first deputy head of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s office. His workspace is adorned with wartime artwork and shelves of historical and current-affairs literature. His 13-year-old Jack Russell terrier, DeZi, stays vigilant by his side.

During an extensive conversation, Kyslytsya reaffirmed Ukraine’s stance on the war: cease fighting along the current frontline without recognizing occupied territories as Russian. The Kremlin persists with unrealistic demands, including a “3+2” proposal from the 2025 Alaska summit between President Trump and President Putin. Russia seeks acknowledgment of its claims over five Ukrainian regions. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has confirmed Ukraine’s rejection of this framework.

“The Russians are obsessed,” Kyslytsya said, regarding Russian aims for complete control of the Donetsk region. Russia feeds the idea of eventual dominance in the region to the U.S. administration. Yet, Ukraine’s use of long-range drones against Russian facilities has weakened Russia’s war footing.

Despite Russia’s military efforts, Kyslytsya points out that Ukraine holds the upper hand. “It’s a war of the 21st century,” Kyslytsya declared. Ukrainian troops continue to receive praise, as seen at the recent NATO summit in Ankara attended by President Trump. Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy has suggested direct talks with President Putin through an open letter.

“For Russia, the war is a decision by one individual,” Kyslytsya said, referring to President Putin. Asserting Ukraine’s advantage, he believes a meeting could occur this year, potentially leading to a major breakthrough. Although Putin currently dismisses the idea, Kyslytsya believes the war’s trajectory might force a change.

“With continued long-range strikes,” Kyslytsya argued, “the Russian leader may soon have no choice but to negotiate on ending the war.” He believes that even Putin now realizes Ukraine holds all the strategic cards.