Russia Closes the Door: No Territorial Discussions in Any Negotiations

Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Sergei Ryabkov, stated on Tuesday that Moscow will make no territorial concessions in talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. According to the TASS news agency, Ryabkov clarified that this stance covers the Donbas, Crimea, and the regions Russia refers to as "Novorossiya."

1. Moscow’s Firm Stance

Ryabkov noted that Moscow is not yet aware of the specific details of the agreements reached between the U.S., Ukraine, and the EU during the Berlin meetings. This comes as Russia maintains its grip on territories it has formally annexed or occupied.

2. The European Security Proposal

• The Berlin Summit: Leaders from ten European nations and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met in Berlin to support U.S.-Ukraine talks.

• Sovereignty First: A joint statement emphasized that any decision regarding territorial concessions rests solely with the Ukrainian people and must be preceded by "strong security guarantees."

• Multinational Force: European leaders proposed deploying a European-led "multinational force" to secure Ukraine’s airspace and maritime borders, alongside sustainable support to maintain a 800,000-strong Ukrainian army.