Russian Ambassador Andrei Kelin declared in a Sky News interview that Russia seeks a swift peace in Ukraine, critiquing the UK and European nations for resistance. He emphasized the need for territorial recognition and ruled out NATO peacekeepers, labeling Zelenskyy’s ceasefire idea as impractical. Recent shifts in US-Russia relations, particularly under President Trump, may influence these negotiations.
In a recent interview with Sky News, Russian Ambassador to the UK Andrei Kelin expressed Russia’s desire for a “quick peace” in Ukraine, attributing resistance to this initiative to London and its European allies. Kelin contended that Moscow is prepared for negotiations and emphasized the need for serious agreements regarding security in Europe, as well as territorial recognition in any peace settlement.
Ambassador Kelin indicated that Russia’s territorial advances in Ukraine should be acknowledged within the framework of any potential peace deal, envisioning a neutral, non-nuclear Ukraine where these territories are formally recognized as part of Russian sovereignty. He mentioned that discussions with the United States have not yet delved deeply into this territorial recognition.
Furthermore, Kelin categorically dismissed the idea of NATO peacekeepers being deployed in Ukraine, criticizing this proposal from UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron. He referred to NATO’s potential involvement as “senseless,” highlighting the complexities this would create. Kelin also described Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s proposal for a temporary ceasefire as a “crazy idea,” insisting that Russia would only entertain a comprehensive final agreement.
The interview highlighted the current dynamics following US President Donald Trump’s recent engagement with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which has altered the geopolitical landscape. Kelin noted that while there is a shift in the global order, he refrained from exaggerating Russia’s fortune in this development, emphasizing an ongoing need for a solution amid ongoing tensions.
In conclusion, the Russian ambassador’s statements underscore Moscow’s determination to secure recognition for its territorial claims in Ukraine as part of any peace agreement. The rejection of NATO involvement and the insistence on a final settlement instead of temporary ceasefires reflects Russia’s unwavering stance on its military objectives. Observers should remain alert to the evolving geopolitical landscape as dialogues between the United States and Russia continue with significant implications for European security.
Original Source: news.sky.com
