KYIV – The Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) is committed to connecting Australia to key global conversations on security and international relations. In this spirit, AIIA CEO Dr Bryce Wakefield attended the Yalta European Strategy (YES) summit in Kyiv, joining global leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine and the future of European and international security.
The summit, held annually, has become one of the most prominent platforms for dialogue on Ukraine’s place in Europe and the global order. This year’s conference was marked by strong expressions of solidarity with Ukraine and an emphasis on the importance of securing lasting peace through Ukrainian strength and resilience.
For Wakefield, the summit was also an opportunity to engage with those most directly involved in the conflict. “It was invaluable to hear from Ukrainian commanders and veterans about the changing nature of the battlefield,” he said. “Equally important were the discussions with Ukrainian and international leaders about the practical steps required to provide peace and ensure that Ukraine can defend itself in the future.”
Wakefield described the war in Ukraine as “a defining issue of our moment.” He echoed the reflections of many on the panel that there could be no justification for the abrogation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and stressed that a lasting peace would only be possible with a strong and secure Ukraine. “There will be no lasting peace without a Ukraine capable of maintaining its own security once the fighting is over,” he said.
The conference was attended by a number of prominent Australians, reflecting Australia’s ongoing interest in the war in Ukraine. In addition to Wakefield, Former Leader of the Opposition and Vice Chancellor of the University of Canberra Bill Shorten, Former Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds, and The Nightly Journalist-at-Large Latika Bourke were among the several Australians who travelled to the summit independently.
