Kremlin issues ultimatum for continuation of peace talks with Ukraine

Yuri Ushakov, an aide to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin, has stated that trilateral negotiations involving the US, Ukraine and Russia are "inadvisable" until Kyiv withdraws Ukrainian troops from the government-controlled part of Donetsk Oblast.

Source: Russian outlet Interfax, citing Ushakov

Quote: "Right now, Kyiv needs to take just one serious step, after which, firstly, military operations will be suspended, and secondly, prospects will open up for a serious discussion of the prospects for a further long-term settlement."

Details: According to Ushakov, "everyone understands this", so "trying to convince each other is largely a waste of time".

He stated that Russia expects "this step from Kyiv, in particular from Zelenskyy".

Background:

• Ukraine's chief negotiator, Rustem Umierov, travelled to the US on 7 May for a meeting with President Donald Trump's team.
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that the talks will cover the release of prisoners of war, the reinvigoration of the diplomatic process, and security issues regarding cooperation with the US.

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