**Ukraine Doubted Over Russia’s Negotiation Terms, President Zelensky Still Ready for Talks**
The war between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing for months, with both sides exchanging blows. Recently, the situation took a diplomatic turn as Ukrainian officials expressed their doubts over negotiations with anyone from Russia except President Vladimir Putin.
Andriy Yermak, the chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelensky, recently gave an interview where he questioned whether Ukraine would consider negotiating with someone other than Putin. His response suggests that only the Russian leader has the power and authority to make real decisions in any negotiation.
**Kremlin’s Mixed Signals**
The Kremlin has been trying to position itself as open to talks while simultaneously rejecting a ceasefire proposal from Kyiv and its Western partners. Moscow has proposed direct negotiations with Ukraine this week, but did not comment on a potential face-to-face meeting between Putin and Zelensky.
Yermak was clear in his statement that Russia will try to use the negotiation process as a cover to escape sanctions. He emphasized that Ukraine is open to peace talks, but not under the current conditions set by the Kremlin.
**Ukraine Insists on Ceasefire**
The Ukrainian official confirmed that Zelensky’s administration continues to insist on a monitored 30-day ceasefire as a precondition for starting negotiations. This is in line with a joint position taken by Ukraine and its Western partners, which calls for a ceasefire before talks can begin.
Moscow has rejected the May 12 truce and instead suggested resuming talks in Istanbul on May 15. Yermak dismissed this as a stalling tactic, emphasizing that Ukraine wants a just and lasting peace.
**Next Steps**
The next step is entirely up to Moscow, according to Yermak. If Russia agrees to the ceasefire proposal, then negotiations can proceed. However, if not, Ukraine demands pressure on Russia through sanctions and other concrete actions.
This situation has raised concerns about the sincerity of Russia’s willingness to negotiate in good faith. The proposed terms for talks seem to be a replay of the failed Istanbul talks in 2022, which would have resulted in Ukraine’s effective surrender.
**Leaked Documents Reveal Moscow’s True Intentions**
Leaked documents from 2022 show that Moscow’s first peace offer amounted to Ukraine’s effective surrender, including massive troop reductions, abandonment of advanced weapons, and recognition of Russian control over occupied territories. This revelation highlights the skepticism surrounding Russia’s intentions to negotiate in good faith.
**The Way Forward**
Ukraine remains committed to a just and lasting peace, but it will not be swayed by empty promises or stalling tactics from Moscow. The situation is tense, and only time will tell if Russia is willing to come to the table with genuine proposals for negotiations.
For now, Ukraine stands firm in its demands for a ceasefire and concrete actions towards a peaceful resolution.
