Russia outlines peace terms pending prisoner exchange completion
Russia will be ready to present Ukraine with a draft document outlining the terms of a long-term peace agreement as soon as the current prisoner exchange is completed, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated on Friday. He emphasized that Russia will not sign a peace agreement with Ukraine without prior agreement on the terms.
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What do you need to know?
- Sergey Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister, conveyed Russia's latest position on peace with Ukraine.
- A Kremlin representative stated that the Russian Federation will first set its terms, which Ukraine will have to sign before peace talks can begin. This document will be signed after the prisoner exchange is completed.
- Lavrov responded to a BBC journalist's question regarding the possibility of signing a peace agreement with Ukraine.
What are Russia's conditions for peace with Ukraine?
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, in an interview with a BBC journalist, emphasized that Russia is not prepared to sign a peace agreement with Ukraine without prior agreement on the terms. "First, a treaty must exist, and once it is agreed upon, then we will decide such matters," said Lavrov. He also suggested that such a document will not be signed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky because—as he mentioned in the interview with the BBC journalist—"as President of Russia Vladimir Putin has repeatedly affirmed – [president Zelensky - ed.] does not possess legitimacy."
Is Russia ready to negotiate with Ukraine?
In response to a question about Russia's readiness to negotiate with Ukraine, Lavrov used a metaphor, saying that "putting the cart before the horse" is not the right approach. This indicates the need to establish detailed terms before formal peace talks can begin.
Once again, Lavrov demonstrated an attitude typical of the Kremlin. Under the guise of openness to negotiations, a reservation was conveyed that gives the aggressor an advantage, not the attacked country.
What does Lavrov's statement mean?
During the talks in Istanbul, held on May 16, the Russian and Ukrainian delegations agreed to continue negotiations. Each side is to present details of their concept regarding a future ceasefire. As part of these talks, an agreement was also reached on the exchange of prisoners of war involving 1,000 people on each side. This operation is currently underway.
