According to a statement released on Saturday by Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, Moscow is prepared to consider substantial solutions for resolving the Ukrainian crisis. However, the statement also made it clear that ultimatums will not be accepted.
As per Tass news agency’s report, Maria Zakharova responded to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba’s comment on the importance of Zelensky’s “peace formula” by stating that it was yet another effort by the Ukrainian government to deceive its own people and the global community.
Maria Zakharova remarked that Zelensky’s “peace formula” is not actually aimed at peace, but rather consists of a series of ultimatum-like demands for Russia that are unrealistic. The plan requires Russia to withdraw its troops from various regions, including the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions, and even Crimea. Additionally, Russia is expected to pay reparations and accept responsibility at international tribunals. Zakharova added that the objective of this “peace formula” is to force Russia to surrender, with the help of the West.
The Russian diplomat emphasized that they have expressed their willingness to consider significant proposals from Ukraine and the West regarding a political and diplomatic resolution to the crisis. However, the language of ultimatums will not be tolerated, as previously stated.
Zakharova stated that to establish a sustainable peace in the region, certain measures must be taken. These include ending the provision of weapons and mercenaries to Ukraine, ceasing all military operations, restoring Ukraine’s neutral status, acknowledging the new situation on the ground resulting from the right of self-determination, and gaining international recognition. Additionally, demilitarizing and de-nazifying Ukraine is crucial, as is the elimination of any threats that may arise from its territory. Furthermore, the country’s non-nuclear status should be secured, and the rights of Russian speakers and ethnic minorities should be respected.
According to her statement, Zakharova claimed that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s actions indicated a preference for providing military aid to Ukraine rather than pursuing diplomatic means to resolve the crisis.
Zakharova recommended that countries willing to aid in resolving the conflict should direct their efforts towards Kiev and its Western allies who have been instrumental in dragging Ukraine into a precarious global confrontation. These nations should urge Kiev and its Western supporters to prioritize peace and stability over their confrontational stance.