WORLD REPORT
RUSSIA REAFFIRMS CONDITIONS FOR ENDING UKRAINE WAR, REJECTS WESTERN PRESSURE
Russia has restated its terms for ending the ongoing 44-month war in Ukraine, insisting that there is still “no alternative” to its special military operation.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova outlined Moscow’s position on Thursday, emphasizing that any political or diplomatic resolution must respect Russia’s core demands.
According to Zakharova, Moscow’s conditions remain unchanged:
A non-aligned and nuclear-free status for Ukraine,
The demilitarization and denazification of the country,
Protection of Russian-speaking citizens, and
Unrestricted operation of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
She reiterated that Russia would not back down from these requirements, even as international efforts intensify to broker peace.
The comments came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump’s meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House, following the cancellation of a planned second U.S.–Russia summit.
Zakharova confirmed that Moscow is open to continued diplomatic engagement with Washington, in line with agreements reached during an October 15 call between Presidents Trump and Vladimir Putin.
“We hope that Washington will continue to share its thoughts and the reasons for its actions, including public ones,” Zakharova said.
The Russian diplomat urged countries involved in peace talks to address the root causes of the conflict and focus on establishing a “reliable peace” and a system of “indivisible global security.”
Reacting to recent comments by the U.S. Treasury Secretary about potential new restrictions on Russian energy giants Rosneft and Lukoil, Zakharova warned that such actions would be “exceptionally counterproductive.”
She said if the Trump administration repeats the policies of previous U.S. governments, the outcome would again be “destructive for internal policy and damaging to global economic stability.”
Despite Western sanctions, Zakharova insisted that Russia has built “strong immunity” against economic restrictions and remains focused on strengthening its economy and energy sector.
As the war approaches its fourth year, Moscow’s latest statement underscores its unwillingness to compromise on its strategic objectives in Ukraine — even as global calls for peace continue to grow.
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board