Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiga held important telephone talks with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar. The conversation took place on July 29 and covered key security issues in the Black Sea, as well as the prospects for bilateral relations.
During the discussion, the Ukrainian minister detailed the escalation of terrorism by Russia against civilian vessels. Sibiga emphasized that Moscow's actions directly threaten freedom of navigation in the region and global food security. Special emphasis was placed on the consequences for Israel, which is a major grain importer.
Beyond operational security issues, the leaders discussed the cultural and historical agenda. Sibiga spoke about preparations for commemorative events marking the 85th anniversary of the Babyn Yar tragedy. The parties agreed on the need to maintain high-level contacts and continue close cooperation within international organizations.
One of the outcomes of the conversation was Sibiga's acceptance of an official invitation to visit Israel. The visit is scheduled to coincide with the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two states.
Context: Tensions in the Caspian and Dialogue with Iran
The talks with Israel are taking place against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Caspian Sea. Earlier, on July 26, Iran issued sharp accusations against Ukraine, claiming that Ukrainian forces attacked a civilian vessel in the region. According to Tehran, one sailor was killed and another injured in the incident.
On the same day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commented on the events, reporting "very good results" from long-range strikes in the Caspian. According to him, the target was a vessel used to transport military cargo to Russia. Ukrainian Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk confirmed that any military logistics supporting the needs of the Russian Federation is considered a legitimate military target.
Immediately following Tehran's threats to launch retaliatory strikes against Ukraine, Andriy Sibiga contacted the Iranian Foreign Minister. In the conversation, he emphasized that Kyiv's actions are aimed solely at defending against Russian aggression and called on Iran to refrain from supporting Russia's war. Subsequently, Tehran confirmed that it does not seek to escalate the conflict but insists on compensation for the damage caused to its vessel. Media reports also indicated that Iran was considering a missile strike on a Ukrainian seaport as a retaliatory measure.
