President Zelensky Proposes Key Security Legislation
On September 28, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky submitted two bills to the Verkhovna Rada aimed at halting Ukraine's participation in the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) and withdrawing from related international agreements. This legislative action forms part of Ukraine’s revamped security strategy in response to the altered geopolitical landscape triggered by Russia’s invasion on February 24, 2022. Concurrently, the President signed a decree suspending provisions that restricted the deployment of weapons in Ukraine’s flank regions.
Shifts in International Security Frameworks
Earlier in 2025, Ukraine also suspended its adherence to the Ottawa Convention, citing Russia’s ongoing use of anti-personnel mines against Ukrainian military personnel and civilians despite never being a party to the treaty. Reflecting these priorities, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs restructured its departments, renaming the Disarmament Department to the Department of International Security and Defense.
It is important to note that Russia withdrew from the CFE Treaty in 2023, prompting NATO countries to cease their obligations under the agreement. Ukraine has made clear that it will not accept any limitations that reduce its defensive capabilities, including restrictions on the size and deployment of its Defense Forces.
“To all our partners on every platform, I say plainly: the era of conventional disarmament is over, and the time for a well-armed peace has arrived. These geopolitical realities were created by Russia. It is time to abandon illusions,” said Andriy Sybiha.
Looking ahead, Ukraine intends to initiate new international legal frameworks, such as the Lviv Convention, named after Raphael Lemkin and Hersch Lauterpacht, signaling a move to modernize its defense policies in light of Russian aggression.
These legislative measures mark a significant shift in Ukraine’s security posture, prioritizing flexibility and readiness over outdated international commitments. By stepping away from treaties that no longer align with current threats, Ukraine aims to strengthen its defensive response. Simultaneously, efforts to establish new global agreements demonstrate Ukraine’s commitment to integrating into evolving security architectures and adapting to changing international legal standards.