Russia demands Ukrainian withdrawal for ceasefire, Kyiv deems terms unrealistic

Russia has stipulated that Ukraine must withdraw its forces from several regions within its internationally recognized borders as a condition for a ceasefire, Ukrainian diplomatic source confirmed.

The demand was made during recent peace talks in Istanbul, marking the first direct negotiations between the two nations since the onset of full-scale hostilities in 2022, Caliber.Az reports via Ukrainian media.

“A Ukrainian diplomatic source said the Russian side demanded during the meeting that the Ukrainian army withdraws from several areas inside Ukraine in return for a ceasefire.

Russian demands are detached from reality and go far beyond anything that was previously discussed", Axios journalist Barak Ravid reported on X.

🚨A Ukrainian diplomatic source said the Russian side demanded during the meeting that the Ukrainian army withdraws from several areas inside Ukraine in return for a ceasefire."Russian demands are detached from reality and go far beyond anything that was previously discussed",… https://t.co/VLKIsVMXBt

— Barak Ravid (@BarakRavid) May 16, 2025

The Ukrainian source emphasized that they exceed previous discussions and are unacceptable to Kyiv. The Russian delegation, led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, was perceived as lacking the authority to make binding decisions, casting doubt on Moscow's commitment to genuine negotiations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated that an "unconditional ceasefire" remains his government's top priority. However, he criticized Russia's proposals as "theatrical," suggesting that Moscow is not engaging in good faith. The absence of key figures like Presidents Putin and Zelenskyy from the talks further dampened optimism for a breakthrough.

Türkiye, serving as a mediator, expressed hopes for progress but acknowledged the challenges posed by the divergent positions of the parties involved. The European Union has announced plans to intensify sanctions targeting Russian oil exports and financial sectors in response to the stalled negotiations.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who participated in preparatory meetings, conveyed low expectations for the talks. The United States continues to advocate for a diplomatic resolution but remains cautious about Russia's intentions.

By Vafa Guliyeva