Russia seeks terms for cessation of hostilities
Russia has showed readiness for a possible ceasefire in the UN Security Council ahead of scheduled discussions with Ukrainian representatives on Monday. Russia's UN Ambassador, Vasily Nebenzia, laid out conditions for cessation of hostilities, stating that at the very least, Western nations ceasing their weapon shipments to the Kyiv regime and Ukraine halting its mobilization during the truce are necessary. Nebenzia added that a ceasefire could then pave the way for tackling the root causes of the conflict in a long-term solution.
In previous talks, Russia has made it clear that it considers a lasting resolution to the conflict as a prerequisite for considering a ceasefire. However, Ukraine has been advocating for a 30-day ceasefire since March, based on a US proposition, with the aim of addressing the underlying issues. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has emphasized the importance of an agreement on the ceasefire without preconditions.
Nebenzia outlined two preconditions, which he believes Ukraine might not agree to. Russia is wary of Ukraine using the ceasefire as an opportunity to regroup and strengthen its war efforts, as opposed to working towards a peaceful resolution. Russia is prepared to discuss the terms for peace during the upcoming talks in Istanbul on Monday. These talks are seen as a significant test for both sides to demonstrate their commitment to ending the war.
In a separate development, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has accused Russia of arrogance in light of Nebenzia's reference to Moscow's military strength. Kuleba expressed concern that Russia's military advances along the entire front line are a slap in the face to all those working towards peace. He contends that more pressure needs to be applied on Russia, suggesting speaking to them in the language of sanctions and increased support for Ukraine could be effective.
The ongoing negotiations between Russia and Ukraine are marked by contrasting preconditions and diplomatic strategies from both sides, with international involvement adding complexity. Russia has maintained its demands for Ukraine's exclusion from NATO, recognition of Russian sovereignty over Crimea and parts of Ukrainian territory, a "neutral and non-aligned status" for Ukraine, anti-Nazi provisions, and equal status for the Russian language in Ukraine. Ukraine, supported by the United States and European states, has been advocating for an unconditional, renewable ceasefire as a precondition for substantive negotiations on a long-term peace agreement.
Despite the ongoing military operations, diplomatic efforts remain stalled, with international pressure yet to yield decisive results. The future of the conflict hinges on whether a ceasefire should precede or be part of comprehensive peace negotiations. Russia insists on immediate negotiation of both issues under its terms, while Ukraine and its allies demand a ceasefire before any substantive talks begin.
What is the stance of Russia and Ukraine regarding a potential ceasefire in the context of war-and-conflicts and general-news? Russia insists that a ceasefire can be discussed only after Western nations stop arming Ukraine and Ukraine halts its military mobilization, while Ukraine has been advocating for an unconditional, renewable ceasefire as a prerequisite for substantive negotiations on a long-term peace agreement.
