Peace talks with Russia: the OP voiced Ukraine’s demands
27 November 2024 17:02
Ukraine can start negotiations with Russia without demanding that it withdraw its troops to the 1991 borders. This was stated by the head of the Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak, in an interview with Dagens industri, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
Yermak expressed the opinion that the implementation of the first three points of Zelenskyy’s Victory Plan (which include an invitation to Ukraine to join NATO, increased military support without restrictions on the use of weapons, and a package of non-nuclear deterrents) would put Ukraine in a favorable negotiating position in talks with Russia.
“Fulfillment of the first three points would put Ukraine in a favorable negotiating position in talks with Russia. Extending an invitation to Ukraine would not create any obligations for NATO Allies under Article 5. However, it would encourage Russia to turn to diplomacy and undermine Putin’s intentions to continue the war,” said the head of the OP.
He added that, on the other hand, various proposed peace initiatives that envisage a ceasefire without ironclad security guarantees for Ukraine “invite” Russia to launch a new full-scale invasion in the near future.
“Fruitful negotiations are possible only when all the warring parties are willing to stop the fighting. In addition, the situation should be returned at least to the state of February 23, 2022. This would be the starting point for further settlement, as a significant part of Ukraine’s territory was occupied before that date,” said Andriy Yermak, speaking about the conditions under which the two sides can start negotiations.
The head of the OP explained that ensuring Ukraine’s victory in the war is a central element of any reliable strategy to counter the Russian threat. Moscow can be engaged in real negotiations only when the Kremlin sees that its current strategy is failing.
“Diplomacy has no prospects if it is not backed by force. There should be no illusions that pacifying the aggressor will lead to lasting peace. The concept of “peace through strength” has proven its effectiveness throughout world history. It’s time to use it again,” summarized Yermak.
