Ukraine's foreign minister claims Russia is hindering peace discussions by not delivering a promised document outlining negotiation terms, while both sides jockey for favorable conditions ahead of potential talks.
Ukraine Accuses Russia of Delaying Peace Negotiations
Ukraine Accuses Russia of Delaying Peace Negotiations
Ukrainian officials express concerns over stalled peace talks as Russia fails to provide key terms.
Ukraine's foreign minister, Andrii Sybiha, has recently stated that Russia is delaying peace negotiations by not providing an anticipated memorandum detailing its terms for peace. This assertion came during a press conference in Kyiv, as the Ukrainian government insists on reviewing this document prior to a proposed new round of talks in Istanbul scheduled for Monday.
Sybiha expressed that for any upcoming discussions to be "substantive and meaningful," Ukraine requires official documentation in advance to ensure its delegation is adequately prepared to address key issues. His comments highlight the ongoing strategic maneuvers from both Ukraine and Russia to influence the agenda and dynamics of the negotiations amidst fears of the United States potentially withdrawing support from the talks altogether.
The primary objective for Kyiv is to secure a cease-fire before engaging in more comprehensive discussions about a long-term peace settlement. However, Russia appears dismissive of any cease-fire discussions, insisting that the negotiations concentrate on resolving the fundamental issues of the conflict. This includes demands that align with Kremlin terminology, such as halting NATO's eastward expansion, which Ukraine and its allies view as a threat to their sovereignty.
Both nations had previously reached an agreement to share their peace proposals during talks in Istanbul earlier this month, which resulted in a significant prisoner exchange but little progress on the main conflict. Ukraine asserts that it has put forth its peace terms to both Russia and the U.S. ahead of the upcoming talks, while Russia insists it will only unveil its position during the negotiations, leading Ukraine to accuse it of deliberately dragging its feet on the peace process.
