Russian Official Demands Security Guarantees for Peace Talks with Ukraine

Leonid Slutsky, Chairman of the International Relations Committee of the Russian State Duma, has stated that peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine can only take place if Russia's indivisible security is guaranteed. Slutsky made this demand in response to recent comments by Czech President Petr Pavel suggesting that Ukraine could be provided with security guarantees in exchange for giving up its NATO membership aspirations.

Why this matters: The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has significant implications for global security and stability, and any peace talks or agreements could have far-reaching consequences for the region and beyond. The success or failure of these negotiations could also impact the balance of power in Europe and influence the trajectory of international relations.

In a post on his Telegram channel, Slutsky emphasized that "a conversation is possible only with reliable guarantees of ensuring indivisible security, first of all, of Russia." He recalled that in December 2021, Moscow had proposed consolidating such guarantees in a legally binding treaty with the United States and an agreement with NATO. However, according to Slutsky, "then they continued to lie to us and tell us about the 'NATO open door policy'. The result is known."

Russia's proposals in December 2021 included excluding further expansion of NATO and Ukraine's accession to the alliance. The United States and NATO sent written responses to these proposals to Moscow on January 26, 2022. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov subsequently sent a message to 37 countries, including NATO and EU members, asking them to explain how they intended to implement commitments on the indivisibility of security. None of the recipients responded to Lavrov's message.

Despite the ongoing tensions and Russia's special military operation in Ukraine, Moscow has repeatedly indicated its readiness for negotiations. However, Kiev has imposed a legislative ban on talks with Russia. The West has called on Russia to negotiate, while ignoring Ukraine's constant refusals to engage in dialogue.

Slutsky's demand for security guarantees as a precondition for peace talks comes amid continued fighting in eastern Ukraine. Ukrainian forces recently confirmed their retreat from the village of Lastochkyne near Avdiyivka after a fierce battle with Russian troops. At least two people were also killed in a Russian air strike in the northeastern Sumy region on February 26 as Russia unleashed fresh drone and missile attacks.

As the war in Ukraine enters its third year, Western leaders gathered in Paris on February 26 to reinforce their determination to support Ukraine. An adviser to French President Emmanuel Macron stated, "We want to send Russian President Vladimir Putin a very clear message that he won't win in Ukraine." However, with Russia insisting on its security demands and Ukraine refusing to negotiate, the prospects for peace remain uncertain.

Key Takeaways

• Russia demands security guarantees for peace talks with Ukraine.
• Ukraine refuses to negotiate, despite Western calls for dialogue.
• Russia proposed security treaty with US and NATO in 2021, but was rejected.
• Fighting continues in eastern Ukraine, with recent Russian air strikes.
• Western leaders vow to support Ukraine, but peace prospects remain uncertain.