Negotiations with Russia are possible, but only after the withdrawal of forces from Ukraine.
This statement was made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dmytro Kuleba, in an interview with Corriere della Sera.
"No, Putin is not a partner for negotiations. He has committed far too many very serious crimes. There are other diplomatic ways to conduct negotiations indirectly. But it is clear to us that we will never be able to see Putin and Zelensky at the same table," said Kuleba.
According to him, Ukraine will be able to negotiate with Russia after its forces are withdrawn from our territory, but not with Putin. "This goal can be achieved through a combination of war and diplomacy. Our generals are working on the first part; their task is to push the Russians to retreat and to make them understand that it's better to talk than to fight. I am concerned about diplomacy and dialogue when possible," the minister noted.
When asked whether negotiations can begin before the full withdrawal of Russian forces, Kuleba answered, "It depends on the circumstances. We do not believe the Russians at their word; no sane person would. Before the withdrawal of forces, we would like to ensure that it's serious and not a trick to later return and attack. I understand these questions and their logic, but I cannot give definite answers because they do not exist; the lives of millions of people are at stake."
Speaking about who can negotiate if not with Putin, the minister gave the example of a grain agreement: the deal was concluded through the mediation of the UN and the President of Turkey, and there was no direct agreement between Ukraine and Russia.
"We need a certain creative potential to find solutions. We will seek them in any way possible, but at the moment, the conditions are absent: Russia continues to attack us, it prefers war over peace," he added.
