Ukrainian top official signals openness to dialogue with Moscow Without 1991 Borders Demand

Andrii Yermak, the head of the Ukrainian President’s Office under Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has indicated that Ukraine might be open to dialogue with Moscow without insisting on the return of Russian forces to the 1991 borders, a demand which had previously been a key condition.

Yermak stated that, fruitful negotiations are only possible when all belligerent parties have a will to stop fighting, Caliber.Az reports per Swedish newspaper.

"In addition, the situation must be reversed to at least the state of February 23, 2022," he noted.

According to Yermak, that would be a starting point for further settlement, since a swath of Ukraine had been occupied before the date. But Russia shows no signs of such willingness, as it continues to escalate.

"Ukraine has expressed its deep gratitude to its steadfast partners, particularly the Nordic and Baltic states (NB8) and Poland, for their unwavering support since the beginning of Russia's invasion. The countries have been crucial allies, playing a significant role as some of the largest providers of assistance to Ukraine," he remarked.

Ukraine has also commended Sweden for its active presidency in both the NB8 and N5 formats this year, highlighting the leadership role the country has taken. Additionally, Ukraine has expressed high regard for the support provided by the NB8 and Poland as Ukraine continues its journey towards EU and NATO membership.

"Ukraine highly appreciates the NB8 and Poland’s support on its path to EU and NATO membership," the official noted.

"We trust in Poland’s continued, strong advocacy in this matter during its upcoming Presidency in the Council of the EU."

Looking forward, the key priority for Ukraine remains ending the war and achieving lasting peace in Europe. Ukrainian officials have voiced their appreciation for the support of President Zelenskyy's Peace Formula, which aims to secure that peace.

Meanwhile, the Victory Plan proposed by President Zelenskyy, which strengthens the Peace Formula, consists of five critical points:

1. An invitation for Ukraine to join NATO.
2. Increased military support without restrictions on weaponry use.
3. A non-nuclear deterrence package.
4. Granting access to Ukraine’s critical raw materials for its partners.
5. Replacing US military contingents in Europe with Ukrainian units.

As President Zelenskyy himself emphasized, “if we start moving with this plan now, we can manage to end the war no later than next year."

The first three points of the Victory Plan are seen as vital in placing Ukraine in a stronger position for negotiations with Russia. Extending an invitation to Ukraine to join NATO would not invoke any obligations under NATO’s Article 5, but it would serve as a strong signal to Russia, encouraging a shift towards diplomacy.

The Ukrainian official warned against proposed peace initiatives that could lead to a ceasefire without firm security guarantees for Ukraine.

"Such initiatives would invite Russia to start another full-scale invasion in the near future," they cautioned, stressing the need for robust and sustainable security arrangements to prevent further escalation.

By Aghakazim Guliyev