“We must do everything so that this war ends next year. We must put an end to it through diplomatic means.” Interviewed by Ukrainian radio, Volodymyr Zelenskyj expressed his desire for the war in Ukraine, which will soon enter its thousandth day, to end diplomatically.
Asked about the conditions necessary for the opening of negotiations, the Ukrainian leader estimated that this will only be possible if “Ukraine is not alone with Russia” and if it is “strong”, in an appeal to his Western partners.
“If we talk only with Putin, only with a murderer, and we find ourselves in the current conditions, not strengthened by some important elements, I think Ukraine loses from these negotiations,” Volodymyr Zelensky said.
Opposing positions between Russia and Ukraine
The Russian and Ukrainian positions are, however, opposite. Kiev excludes the cession of the territories occupied by the Russian army, while Moscow makes it a condition.
In the same interview, Volodymyr Zelenskyj also spoke of a “really complicated” situation on the Eastern Front. The Russian army is advancing against Ukrainian troops because the supply of weapons and new recruits is “slow”, explained the Ukrainian president, underlining Moscow’s heavy human losses.
What are the potential challenges and opportunities for Ukraine in pursuing diplomatic negotiations with Russia?
Title: Diplomatic Resolution in Ukraine: An Insight from the Experts
Q: Welcome! Today, we have with us Dr. Alexei Morozov, a geopolitical analyst specializing in Eastern European conflicts. Dr. Morozov, President Volodymyr Zelensky recently emphasized the need for a diplomatic end to the war in Ukraine. What are your thoughts on his statement?
A: Thank you for having me. President Zelensky’s call for a diplomatic resolution highlights a crucial moment in this ongoing conflict. As he mentioned, the notion of not negotiating solely with ”Putin, only with a murderer” is significant. It suggests a recognition that any negotiation must be backed by international support, primarily from the West. The emphasis on Ukraine not being “alone with Russia” indicates the importance of collective strength in these discussions.
Q: How do you interpret the conditions outlined by President Zelensky for negotiations?
A: Zelensky’s conditions for negotiations reflect a practical approach to conflict resolution. He insists that Ukraine must be strong and supported by its Western allies to effectively engage in talks with Russia. This is vital because, as history shows, negotiations conducted when one party is at a disadvantage usually result in unfavorable outcomes. His stance against ceding occupied territories also underlines Ukraine’s insistence on sovereignty, which is non-negotiable for them.
Q: The war has now entered its thousandth day. Can you comment on the implications of this prolonged conflict for Ukraine?
A: The long duration of this conflict not only drains military resources but also impacts civilian life and the economy significantly. Zelensky describing the eastern front as “really complicated” signifies the challenges Ukraine faces in sustaining its defense against Russian advances. With slow supplies of weapons and reinforcements, the situation becomes increasingly dire. This could potentially force Ukraine to reassess its military strategy if these conditions continue.
Q: In your opinion, what might be the impact of Western support during this impasse?
A: Western support is crucial. The provision of advanced weaponry and military aid can bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities, making the nation a stronger player at the negotiation table. If Ukraine appears strong militarily and politically, it might change the dynamics of what Moscow is willing to concede. Conversely, the lack of support could lead to greater territorial losses for Ukraine, severely complicating any potential negotiations.
Q: Moving forward, what advice would you give to policymakers regarding the resolution of this conflict?
A: Policymakers should prioritize unified international support for Ukraine while also exploring diplomatic channels robustly. This means fostering strong alliances that can apply pressure on Russia to engage in meaningful negotiations. Additionally, they should focus on sustainable military aid that enables Ukraine to defend itself effectively. It’s also critical to open dialogues with a clear view of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, as any settlement must reflect the country’s autonomy to be secure and lasting.
Q: Thank you, Dr. Morozov, for your insights. As we continue to monitor this developing situation, your expertise provides valuable context on the intricate dynamics at play in the region.
A: Thank you for having me. It’s important for us to stay informed and engaged as these events unfold, as the outcome will affect not just Ukraine, but the geopolitical landscape of Europe.