Ukraine rejects peace talks, advisor warns of Putin's expansionist goals
Presidential adviser from Ukraine, Mihailo Podoliak, asserts that Ukraine will not negotiate with Russia, claiming that dictator Vladimir Putin aims to conquer not only Ukraine but also other former Soviet territories, as reported by RBC.
In an interview with Bild, Podoliak dismissed the possibility of peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. "According to Putin, the war will persist until he seizes the entire territory of Ukraine, attains dominance in Europe, and conquers other former Soviet territories. One does not embark on a major war, tarnishing their reputation and relationships, if they intend to settle for less. It's nonsensical," explained Podoliak.
Additionally, the adviser called for the continuation of arms deliveries. According to him, the issue lies in disproportionality - the deliveries must be balanced. Moreover, Podoliak urged the reinforcement of Ukraine's capabilities with high-tech weapons. He added that the frontline spans 1,300 km, with battles occurring over 600-800 km.
The adviser emphasised that Russia has not made significant progress on the front in the past year.
It is worth noting that Ukraine and Russia engaged in several rounds of negotiations at the beginning of the invasion. However, Ukrainian authorities now insist that Ukraine will not return to the negotiation table until Moscow withdraws its troops from the country.
Recently, the American television network NBC News, citing American and European officials, reported that the United States and the EU have privately begun discussions with Ukraine regarding potential peace negotiations with Russia. The conversations reportedly included very general outlines of what Ukraine might need to give up in exchange for peace. President Volodymyr Zelensky, however, denied the existence of such discussions, emphasising that no one is exerting pressure on Ukraine regarding negotiations.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
