Russia Presents List Of Demands For Talks With US On Ukraine Deal: Report
Russia Presents Demands to US for Ending Ukraine War
Russia has reportedly presented the US with a list of demands to end its war against Ukraine and reset relations with Washington. The terms of the deal were discussed during recent in-person and virtual conversations between Russian and US officials.
The Kremlin’s demands are said to be broad and similar to those presented to Ukraine, the US, and NATO in the past. They include no NATO membership for Ukraine, an agreement not to deploy foreign troops in Ukraine, and international recognition of Russia’s claim over Crimea and four provinces.
Furthermore, Russia has also raised concerns about NATO’s eastward expansion and wants the US and NATO to address what it considers the “root causes” of the conflict.
US President Donald Trump is awaiting a response from Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding a potential 30-day truce, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has expressed willingness to accept as a first step towards peace talks.
However, there is uncertainty about Putin’s commitment to a ceasefire agreement, with details still being ironed out.
Some US officials and experts are concerned that Putin may use a truce to further his agenda of dividing the US, Ukraine, and Europe, and undermining peace talks.
In response to the demands, the Biden administration engaged with Russia on some of them in late 2021 and early 2022, but the efforts failed to prevent Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022.
Recent discussions between the US, Ukraine, and Russia in Istanbul have not resulted in a concrete agreement, with Russia demanding that Ukraine give up its NATO ambitions and accept a permanent nuclear-free status.
The Trump administration appears to be divided on how to approach negotiations with Moscow, with conflicting views on whether the Istanbul talks could serve as a starting point for a peace deal.
Expert Analysis
Experts believe that Russia’s demands are not only aimed at shaping an agreement with Ukraine but also at influencing accords with Western allies. The demands, which have remained consistent over the years, seek to limit NATO’s military presence in Europe and expand Putin’s influence.
Despite efforts by the US to engage with Russia on some demands, there is skepticism about Russia’s willingness to make concessions for peace. The demands have been consistent since 1945, indicating a long-standing stance by the Kremlin.
Overall, the negotiations between the US and Russia continue to face challenges as both sides navigate through complex geopolitical dynamics.
