Russian President Vladimir Putin has firmly stated that Ukraine must surrender territory claimed by Russia for any potential peace agreement to materialise, setting a challenging backdrop for upcoming diplomatic talks with United States representatives in Moscow.
Maximalist Demands and Diplomatic Moves
During a press briefing in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday, Putin outlined his uncompromising position, declaring that Ukrainian troops must withdraw from contested regions and lay down their weapons for hostilities to cease. The Russian leader emphasised that if Ukrainian forces don't voluntarily leave these territories, Moscow would achieve this objective through military means.
Putin did acknowledge that a 28-point peace proposal drafted by Washington could serve as a foundation for future agreements, suggesting the US is beginning to understand Russia's perspective. However, he maintained that several issues still require resolution before any comprehensive deal can be reached.
Kyiv's Firm Rejection of Territorial Concessions
Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials have responded with equal determination against surrendering land. Andriy Yermak, Ukraine's chief negotiator, told The Atlantic that President Volodymyr Zelensky would never permit territorial concessions to Russia as part of any peace settlement.
"No one should count on us giving up territory," Yermak stated unequivocally, adding that "not a single sane person today would sign a document to give up territory." This firm stance indicates Kyiv's refusal to appease Russian aggression despite ongoing military pressures.
Military Developments and European Security Concerns
On the ground, Putin claimed Russian forces have surrounded the strategic city of Pokrovsk, though this assertion remains unverified independently. The capture of this transport hub would potentially open a pathway toward Kramatorsk and Sloviansk, the two largest Ukrainian-controlled cities remaining in the Donetsk region.
Ukrainian military officials counter that their forces are vigorously defending Pokrovsk, with intense combat reportedly continuing in the city centre. Both nations recognise the strategic importance of controlling this territory ahead of potential negotiations.
In parallel developments, European nations are formulating plans for a reassurance force to uphold Ukrainian security post-ceasefire. Turkey announced on Thursday its readiness to participate in such an initiative, while French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the force would include British, French, and Turkish personnel.
The diplomatic landscape continues to evolve as US special envoy Steve Witkoff prepares to travel to Moscow next week, where discussions will focus on the contentious futures of Crimea and the Donbas region. With both sides entrenched in their positions, the path toward a peaceful resolution remains fraught with challenges.
