Ukraine says no to one of Russia’s main demands
Photo: Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Heorhii Tykhyi (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine will not agree to any restrictions on its defense capabilities. The Ukrainian defense industry continues to attract investments for development, according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi in the podcast Hruntt with Notevskyi.
"Ukraine will never accept any limitations on its defense capabilities. This applies to the Armed Forces, the defense industry, and defense support from partners," he said.
The spokesperson added that even if NATO members do not reach a consensus on Ukraine’s accession to the alliance, no one will impose rules regarding restrictions.
Tykhyi also emphasized that Ukraine is working to strengthen its defense industry.
"Our main priority in all negotiations right now is attracting investments to the Ukrainian defense industry. This is mutually beneficial for us and our partners. They gain access to joint production and technologies. Ukraine already possesses technologies that no one else has," said the Foreign Ministry spokesperson.
Russia’s demands to Ukraine
As a reminder, Ukraine and Russia held two rounds of talks in Istanbul. During the meeting, the Russian delegation presented unacceptable demands to end the war against Ukraine.
Sources from RBC-Ukraine revealed that Russia demanded Ukraine adopt a neutral status (referring to NATO membership), effectively give up five regions (including territories not controlled by Russia), withdraw troops from these areas, renounce reparations, and agree to "protect the rights of Russian speakers."
Additionally, the Kremlin is known to demand a significant reduction in the size of Ukraine’s military forces and arsenal.
Furthermore, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin recently demanded that Ukraine recognize the results of the so-called referendums in the occupied territories.
