Ukrainian FM: Russia wants Yalta-2 or Minsk-3, not a just peace
Photo: Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
The Kremlin seeks Yalta-2 or Minsk-3, not a just peace in the war in Ukraine. Therefore, Russia is a threat to the security of European countries, said Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at the 31st Annual OSCE Ministerial Council.
"Let’s make two points clear. Russia wants a second Yalta or at least a third Minsk. They want a world of zones of influence where the use of force dictates new rules and new borders. There will be no Yalta-2 or Minsk-3," the Minister emphasized.
Sybiha noted that instead, Ukraine wants a just peace and respect for principles for all.
"These are the two approaches to the future that are being decided right now in Ukraine. We need to act now to ensure that the future comes. We need to eliminate grey zones, because Russia turns them into zones of influence. Instead, we need geopolitical certainty on Ukraine as part of the Euro-Atlantic community," Foreign Minister noted.
Secondly, he said, Russia is not a partner, it is the biggest threat to common security.
"Russia’s participation in the OSCE is a threat to cooperation in Europe. And it will remain so. Russia is deepening cooperation with Iran and North Korea, interfering in Georgia, Moldova, the Western Balkans, and other states, and waging a hybrid war against Europe," Sybiha added.
Ukraine-Russia negotiations
Recently, the Kremlin has increasingly voiced intentions to end the war in Ukraine through negotiations. However, in practice, Russia is escalating the conflict, intensifying terror against Ukrainians, and involving other countries, such as North Korea’s troops.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine must maintain a strong position in negotiations with Russia. Otherwise, such negotiations will be a loss for Ukraine. The government insists on a just peace, requiring Russia to withdraw troops and respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence.
At the same time, Volodymyr Zelenskyy does not rule out the option of peace through force, if the international community takes steps to force Russia to make a peace deal. Congratulating Donald Trump on his election victory, Zelenskyy said he appreciated the commitment to the “peace through strength” approach, that "can practically bring just peace in Ukraine closer".
