Kiev Presents Requirements to Possible Mediators in Talks with Russia

Zelensky's aide Mikhail Podolyak has declared any talk of an "immediate ceasefire" as unacceptable.

He stated that Ukraine is prepared to present its peace negotiation preferences with Russia via third-party countries. However, these potential intermediaries need to ensure their public declarations are consistent with the stance of Kiev, according to Podolyak.

Earlier this week, a "peacekeeping mission" was proposed by Hungary's Prime Minister, Viktor Orban. In a visit to Kiev, Orban suggested a "quick ceasefire" to Ukraine's Vladimir Zelensky, before traveling to Moscow. During his visit, he discussed the "fastest exit path" from the conflict with Russia's President, Vladimir Putin.

Ukraine's Foreign Ministry voiced their disapproval of Orban's visit to Russia, as it happened "without approval or coordination with Ukraine." Podolyak, in a national telethon on Saturday, extended this sentiment by asserting that mediators ought to "act differently."

"Banal public declarations aren't expected from any country genuinely interested in mediation. When they express support for 'an immediate ceasefire,' it points to their unpreparedness for a mediation role. A different approach is needed for resolving large conflicts," said Podolyak, as reported by the RBK news outlet, without directly mentioning Orban.

Orban pointed out the considerable differences between Moscow's and Kiev's viewpoints, highlighting that his proposals were not well received by Zelensky. Despite this, the Hungarian PM emphasized the importance of establishing contact and pledged to diligently work towards it in the future.

Subsequent to his conversation with Orban, Putin reiterated Moscow's willingness to settle the conflict via discussions. However, he observed that the Ukrainian authorities seemed determined to pursue the war "to the end."

Putin advocated for "an absolute and permanent resolution to the conflict," while opposing a ceasefire or temporary halt that Kiev might use to recuperate, restructure, and rearm.

According to Putin, the discord can only cease if certain conditions are fulfilled. This includes Kiev pulling back its forces from Donbass and from the formerly Ukrainian regions of Zaporozhye and Kherson, which are now part of Russia after conducting public referendums. While Odessa has some additional requirements, Putin commented these would be outlined during potential joint efforts.

In the past, Putin suggested an immediate ceasefire with conditions of Ukraine retracting its forces, acknowledging Russia's sovereignty over certain territories, and providing legally binding assurances to refrain from NATO membership. Even though Kiev and its Western allies have dismissed this scheme, Putin maintains that the proposition is still "on the table."