In recent days, international diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict between Russia and Ukraine have entered a new phase. The focus has been on a statement by the Russian President’s aide, Yuri Ushakov, made following Vladimir Putin’s meeting with US representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Ushakov’s statement that Russia is not prepared to make significant concessions has caused a wide stir.
At the meeting held in the Kremlin on 5 September, Vladimir Putin reaffirmed his intention to achieve all the military objectives set, whilst emphasising the need to address the so-called ‘root causes’ of the conflict. By these ‘root causes’, the Kremlin means Ukraine’s refusal to join NATO, as well as changes to the country’s political system – something which Kyiv categorically rejects.
The US Institute for the Study of War (ISW) emphasises in its report that the Kremlin appears to be continuing down the path of maximalist demands and refusing to compromise. These demands include the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the territories of the Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions, as well as the demilitarisation of the country.
It is worth noting that, against the backdrop of constant statements about Russia’s intentions, ISW analysts are confident that, even at the current rate of advance, Russian troops are unlikely to be able to capture the Donetsk region, at least not until 2032. These forecasts contradict Putin’s confidence that the objective will be achieved by the end of 2026.
Meanwhile, on 6 September, US envoys arrived in Kyiv, where they held talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The discussions centred on security guarantees, economic aid and the supply of air defence systems. Zelenskyy described these meetings as “substantive” and emphasised that they were aimed at further strengthening the partnership with the US and Europe.
It is not yet known when or where the next meeting will take place, but it is clear that dialogue between the countries is continuing. It is important that both sides are committed to a peaceful resolution of the conflict, even though they hold differing positions.
The Kremlin’s statements and actions cast doubt on the possibility of reaching a peace agreement quickly. Nevertheless, the international community continues to seek ways to resolve the conflict peacefully that would satisfy all parties.