Head of Presidential Office on peace talks: 'Ukraine is a democratic and transparent country, it's impossible to hide anything'
Photo: Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak (photo: Vitalii Nosach/RBC-Ukraine)
In Ukraine, the principle of openness and transparency in peace negotiations is upheld; it is impossible to hide important information in a democratic society, Andriy Yermak, Head of the Presidential Office, says in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.
According to Yermak, although certain consultations may be closed, this happens not because of the Ukrainian authorities' desire, but due to the demands of partners, and it is part of normal diplomatic practice.
"So in this case, I believe we live in such an open society, and Ukraine is such a democratic and transparent country, that it's impossible to hide anything," Yermak noted.
The Head of the Presidential Office also emphasized that at certain stages of peace negotiations, information may not be available to the public, since these are consultations, not the adoption of final decisions.
An important aspect is that these consultations give Ukraine's partners a better understanding of Ukraine's position, particularly in the context of manipulations by Russia.
"If every step becomes public knowledge today, then unfortunately, we will never reach a result. That's why sometimes certain consultations are closed not at the initiative of the Ukrainian side. Sometimes these are the requirements of partners, which must be respected," Yermak explained.
The Head of the Presidential Office expressed confidence that the main diplomat and leader of the country is President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who sets a high standard of honest politics.
Yermak then added that despite the manipulations that may appear in international media, it is the official statements of Ukraine that should form the basis for evaluating the peace negotiation process.
Future negotiations between Russia and Ukraine
On May 11, the Russian dictator Vladimir Putin rejected the idea of a ceasefire and proposed to resume direct negotiations with Ukraine on May 15 in Istanbul.
Andriy Yermak expressed his belief that Ukraine is already well aware of the consequences of negotiations with Russia without a ceasefire.
According to the Head of the Presidential Office, although the US and Europe may support such an initiative, it is important to understand what consequences this would have for regional security.
Yermak emphasized that the position of Ukraine and its partners is clear: a ceasefire must be achieved first, and only after that can negotiations begin.
