Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko stated Sunday that Moscow will require binding security guarantees from the U.S. and NATO as a precondition for resolving the Ukraine conflict. Key demands include Ukraine's neutral status and a formal rejection of NATO membership for Kyiv, framing these as vital to counter what Russia perceives as NATO's growing threat along its borders.
U.S. Mediation Efforts Intensify
Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to discuss ceasefire terms with Russian President Vladimir Putin, focusing on territorial disputes and infrastructure. Trump expressed cautious optimism about reaching a 30-day truce, stating, "We want to see if we can bring that war to an end. Maybe we can, maybe we can't, but I think we have a very good chance."
Ukraine's Firm Stand on Sovereignty
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated his refusal to recognize Russia's territorial claims, calling the issue "complex" but non-negotiable as a ceasefire condition. This position was reportedly discussed during a March 11 meeting between U.S. and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia, with Washington acknowledging Kyiv’s stance.
NATO's Role Under Scrutiny
Grushko criticized NATO's potential involvement in peacekeeping, proposing instead non-military observers. "NATO and peacekeeping are entirely incompatible," he asserted, highlighting concerns over the alliance’s expanding military presence in Eastern Europe. Moscow remains open to separate EU negotiations if Brussels signals readiness to engage.
