Negotiations with Russia possible in second half of 2023, says Ukrainian MP
David Arakhamia (Photo:sluga-narodu.com)
There may be a chance to restart talks between Ukraine and Russia in the second half of 2023, the head of the Servant of the People faction in parliament and head of the team negotiating with Russia, David Arakhamia, said on Ukrainian national television on Nov. 12.
When asked when it would be possible to talk about negotiations with the Kremlin, Arakhamia said that, in his opinion, it would be when “both in Russia and the United States the electoral cycles start to work.”
“That is, at some point in the second half of next year, when the U.S. presidential race will start," Arakhamia said.
“In addition, in 2024, Putin will have elections. And everyone will need to demonstrate something politically.”
Later, in a post on Telegram, Arakhamia said that even such an important factor as electoral cycles would not change Ukraine's position – Kyiv will only sit down at the negotiating table when “our conditions are met.”
The head of the Servant of the People faction does not believe that the Russian dictator is able to demonstrate any military success, “so they may try to somehow demonstrate something to their people on the diplomatic front.” He also suggested that Russia is now raising the issue of negotiations again because it needs time “to recharge” its military.
"They are regrouping, there are problems with weapons, with ammunition,” Arakhamia said.
“They just need time to strengthen their positions. We will not give them this time.”
On Nov. 7, Zelenskyy named 5 conditions that could make negotiation possible:
- Ukraine regaining its territorial integrity;
- Russia’s compliance with the United Nations norms and rules;
- Payment by Russia of reparations for damage caused by the war;
- The punishment of every war criminal;
- Peace guarantees.
On Oct. 4, Zelenskyy endorsed a decision made by the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) to outlaw any talks with the Russian dictator.
According to media reports, the Biden administration has been privately asking the Ukrainian government to signal an openness to negotiations with the Russian Federation. However, the request is not aimed at pushing Ukraine to the negotiating table, but, rather, to ensure that Kyiv retains the support of other nations in future.
Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of NATO, said Ukrainian success in any possible negotiations with Russia depends on its combat achievements.
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