Why Russia didn't give Ukraine memorandum on time — Zelenskyy explains
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Russia deliberately refused to hand over its memorandum to Ukraine before the second round of negotiations in Istanbul. Moscow uses dishonest tactics, stated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The head of state confirmed that the content of the Russian memorandum matches what was previously published in the media. At the same time, Russia has never formally responded to the document handed over by Ukraine.
"Why didn’t they hand over their document before the meeting? Because they knew it was an ultimatum and the Ukrainian side would not accept it, no one would take it seriously, because it was an ultimatum. This is not a memorandum of understanding," Zelenskyy explained.
He clarified that a memorandum of understanding should reflect the positions of both sides, not just one. Therefore, the Russian document constitutes an ultimatum.
"In my personal opinion, they didn't give it to us in advance because they understood that if it became public, Ukraine would have every right not to attend that meeting. Not because we don't want to, but because it would be clear that the meeting would have no substance. They are just shell game players (unfair players - ed.)," the President added.
He also noted that Russia is trying to present itself to the United States as if it is acting constructively, so that Washington postpones the introduction of new sanctions, which personally depend on President Donald Trump. Moscow fears such measures.
At the same time, he added that such meetings are not necessary for prisoner exchanges, since the lists can be discussed over the phone. Teams can work on this, as everyone is interested in bringing prisoners home.
Russia's memorandum
Russia handed over a memorandum to Ukraine through Türkiye during a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul.
Almost immediately, the text of this memorandum appeared in the Russian media. In it, Russia stated that to end the war, Ukraine must withdraw its troops from the Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, Luhansk, and Kherson regions.
