A Russian official stated that Russia is seeking a solid, “ironclad” guarantee that Ukraine will be prevented from joining NATO, amid efforts by the U.S. government to facilitate a resolution to the conflict.
Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told Russian newspaper Izvestia that Russia wants these guarantees included in any agreement, according to Reuters. He specified that this should include Ukraine’s neutral status and a commitment from NATO nations to deny its membership.
Reports indicate that Grushko did not comment on the proposed 30-day cease-fire, which Ukraine reportedly accepted with U.S. negotiators in Saudi Arabia the previous week. The Russian President has indicated that any agreement must first satisfy essential preconditions.
U.S. special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff mentioned to CNN on Sunday that a phone conversation between Trump and Putin is anticipated this week. Witkoff characterized his recent meeting with Putin in Moscow as “positive” and “solution-based.”
Grushko also reiterated Russia’s firm opposition to the deployment of European troops in Ukraine, despite signals from France and Australia suggesting openness to sending a NATO “peacekeeping” force.
Grushko stated, according to Reuters, that Russia opposes the presence of NATO contingents on Ukrainian territory, regardless of whether they are deployed under the banner of the European Union, NATO, or individual nations. He warned that their presence would signify involvement in the conflict, with all the associated consequences.
Grushko suggested the possibility of unarmed observers or a civilian mission to oversee the implementation of specific aspects of an agreement or guarantee mechanisms, but emphasized the need for a deal first, dismissing current discussions as “hot air.”
United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened a virtual meeting on Saturday with representatives from 26 nations potentially interested in participating in a “peacekeeping force” in Ukraine, according to The Telegraph.
French President, as quoted by French media outlets on Saturday, stated the intention to “deploy a few thousand men per nation, at key points, to carry out training programs” and “show our support over the long term.”
Macron reportedly said that if Ukraine requests allied forces on its territory, Russia has no right to object.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also expressed his willingness to contribute troops.
Grushko further contended that a lasting resolution hinges on European allies acknowledging the necessity of barring Ukraine from NATO and preventing the deployment of foreign military contingents.
Grushko argued that ensuring Ukraine’s security and regional stability requires addressing the root causes of the conflict, which he identified as the potential for NATO membership and foreign military presence.
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