America News Agency

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha issued a statement regarding Sweden's decision to use the Ukrainian names of Ukrainian cities.

Sybiha thanked Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard and welcomed Sweden's decision to use the names "Kyiv" instead of "Kiev", "Odesa" instead of "Odessa", and "Donbas" instead of "Donbass".

He stressed that this step is not merely about spelling, but is significant for Ukraine's identity, its decolonization process, and the country's return to its own identity.

Sybiha also noted that the decision carries particular significance as Russia's attacks continue, adding that Sweden is showing respect not only through its military support but also for Ukraine's identity and culture.