The peaceful settlement of the war in Ukraine until 2026 is impossible because of the rigid position of Russia, which it puts forward in negotiations. This was reported by Washington Post, citing European intelligence data.
According to the publication, the analytical center, closely related to the FSB Fifth Service (responsible for operations in Ukraine), prepared a document with the Kremlin's potential conditions a week before the negotiations between Russia and the US in Riyadh on February 18.
In this document, Donald Trump's plans to reach peace in 100 days were called unrealistic, and the negotiation process will be delayed by at least 2026.
What are the requirements of the Kremlin?
Russia demands:
- Recognition of its sovereignty over the occupied territories of Ukraine.
- Creation of a buffer zone in the northeast of Ukraine - at the border with Bryansk and Belgorod regions.
- Formation of the demilitarized zone in the southern regions of Ukraine, including the Odessa region.
- Ukraine's refusal to join NATO and the possibility of participation of pro -Russian parties in elections.
The document also states that "the Kiev regime cannot be changed from within the country but requires complete dismantling."
In addition, Russia is categorically against any peacekeeping forces, because it believes that they will act under "western influence".
What does the United States offer?
The Russian Federation considers the possibility of trading in minerals, in particular in the occupied territories, as a way of strengthening their position in the negotiations. The Kremlin also insists on:
- US stopped supplying weapons to Ukraine,
- Russia has stopped military supply to countries that are "unfriendly" to the United States.
In this case, the Kremlin rejects the idea of weakening sanctions in response to concessions, believing that it will not bring it enough benefit.
Prospects for negotiations
According to European intelligence, Russia is working to weaken US positions in negotiations using internal political tension in Washington. The Kremlin also betting on the future may conclude a more profitable agreement if the fighting is temporarily stopped and Ukraine will weaken.
Thus, peaceful settlement looks unlikely in the near future, as Moscow puts forward ultimate demands that contradict Ukraine and its allies.
