Russia-Ukraine peace deal; Ball is in Russia’s court

Zelensky stated that the peace deal would depend on Russian forces pulling back to their pre-invasion positions. Also, Zelensky said this while speaking to a London think tank. Zelensky continued that this was the minimum that the country would accept.

He stated he is the leader of Ukraine, not a mini-Ukraine. He did not also mention Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014. Russia is currently battling hard to take full control over Mariupol. In addition, the presence of Ukrainian forces along with some civilians in the south-eastern city’s vast Azovstal steelworks was observable. This subjected to a furious Russian onslaught.

Taking over Mariupol would become Russia’s biggest achievement in the two months of the war. This would give Russia’s President Vladimir Putin to celebrate something on 9 May but may stand in the way of a peace deal. It is also the victory day in Russia. This is the day that country marks the Soviet victory over the Nazis in World War Two.

Zelensky spoke from Kyiv to the Chatham House think tank in London. He said that there is no question of Russia holding on to the territory it conquered since it invaded Ukraine.

He even gave a response to a question from the BBC. Also, he said to stop the war between Russia and Ukraine; the step should regain the situation of 23 February. He added that he got elected as the president of Ukraine and not the president of mini Ukraine. He continued that this was a very important point.

The reference to the situation of 23 February suggests Ukraine may not insist on retaking Crimea before making peace with Russia. The peninsula annexed by Russia eight years ago. Zelensky also called for the resumption of diplomatic dialogue between Russia and Ukraine. He said, “Even though they destroyed all our bridges, I think not all the bridges are yet destroyed, figuratively speaking. “Russia described the process as a state of stagnation” The peace deal is yet to make it to the papers.

Credits: BBC