Zellenskyy's Office sets conditions for Russia to negotiate: We won’t fall for a pig in a poke
Photo: Head of the Office of the President Andriy Yermak (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine is ready for new negotiations with Russia, but only on the condition of clear and well-considered proposals, states the Head of the Office of the President, Andriy Yermak, according to the official website of the President of Ukraine.
Yermak emphasized that Ukraine desires peace above all, but not at any cost.
"Compromise does not mean capitulation. Moscow is proposing a new round of negotiations. And we are ready for dialogue. However, we demand clarity – clear and, most importantly, reasonable proposals. We will not fall for a pig in a poke called a memorandum. We have already had one. That is enough. Diplomacy must be built on specifics, not empty promises," he noted.
Russia is still 'preparing' a ceasefire memorandum
During the talks in Istanbul on May 16, the Ukrainian and Russian delegations agreed on the need to formalize their positions on a possible ceasefire in writing.
Later, Russia announced the preparation of the so-called memorandum and proposed holding a second round of talks on June 2, again in Istanbul.
However, the delivery of the document to Ukraine has been repeatedly delayed. At first, there were promises to provide it after a prisoner exchange in the format of 100 for 1,000, but this did not happen. The memorandum also did not arrive after Ukraine submitted its proposals to Moscow.
Currently, the Kremlin says the document will be presented directly during the next meeting. At the same time, Kyiv insists on receiving Russia’s proposals before June 2.
In particular, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha emphasizes that this will allow for more meaningful negotiations, and the delegation will be able to act within clearly defined mandates.
Earlier today, an expert noted that the upcoming talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul could reach a deadlock and explained what the problem is.
