Russian Peace Memorandum Outlines Extensive Demands in Istanbul Talks
On June 2, Russian state media outlet TASS published what it described as Moscow’s official “peace memorandum” presented to Ukraine during the second round of negotiations in Istanbul. The document, widely circulated online in the wake of failed talks, details stringent conditions Russia claims are prerequisites for a potential ceasefire.
Territorial Claims and Military Withdrawal
Central among the Russian demands is Ukraine’s recognition of Russia’s control over several contested regions. The memorandum calls for the official acceptance of the annexation of Crimea, as well as Kherson, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Luhansk oblasts. Notably, Russia does not have complete control over these territories at present.
Accompanying these territorial demands is a call for the full withdrawal of Ukrainian military forces from the aforementioned regions. Moscow’s proposed plan also stipulates subsequent demobilization measures for Ukraine’s armed forces.
Security Alignment and External Influence
The document expands its stipulations to encompass Ukraine’s geopolitical posture. Russia insists that Ukraine formally adopt neutrality, relinquish aspirations to join NATO or similar alliances, and prohibit the redeployment of its troops. Additionally, Moscow seeks a halt to Western military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv, effectively isolating Ukraine from substantial international support.
Other conditions require Ukraine to forgo any claims for wartime damages, grant amnesty to "political prisoners," and establish Russian as an official state language. The memorandum also prohibits the future deployment of foreign troops on Ukrainian territory, directly countering proposals for an international peacekeeping mission.
Ukrainian Counterproposal Emphasizes Security and Reparations
During the negotiations, Ukraine submitted its peace framework, diverging sharply from Russia’s position. Kyiv’s proposal includes a broad prisoner exchange and demands the return of Ukrainian children relocated by Russia, alongside the release of civilians detained in Russian-held areas.
Crucially, Ukraine’s plan maintains the country’s right to seek membership in both the European Union and NATO, paired with a call for international security guarantees to prevent further invasions. Kyiv also advocates utilizing frozen Russian assets to finance reconstruction and reparations, while signaling openness to lifting certain sanctions against Russia contingent on a verifiable ceasefire.
No Breakthrough as Negotiations Continue
The divergent positions underscore the significant gaps remaining between Moscow and Kyiv as diplomatic efforts continue. While Russia’s memorandum seeks to fortify its territorial and political objectives, Ukraine’s emphasis remains on sovereignty, justice for wartime actions, and sustained international engagement. The outcome of these peace efforts remains uncertain, with prospects for a negotiated settlement still distant.
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