At the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Russian President Vladimir Putin outlined specific conditions for peace talks and a potential ceasefire with Ukraine, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict. Putin emphasized Russia’s willingness to engage in negotiations but rejected the possibility of a ceasefire without concrete, irreversible steps from Ukraine.Putin stated, “We need to achieve the point where the opposing side takes steps that would be irreversible for the Russian Federation, therefore, a ceasefire without this agreement is impossible”. He expressed skepticism about the role of mediators, suggesting that direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine are necessary.The Russian leader proposed using the ‘Istanbul Agreements’ from spring 2022 as a potential basis for negotiations. These agreements, which were partially agreed upon but ultimately rejected by Ukraine, required Ukraine to renounce NATO membership and reduce its armed forces.Putin criticized Western involvement in the conflict, particularly the United States, accusing them of provoking the crisis. He emphasized the SCO’s role in promoting a multipolar world order and countering Western influence.In addition to the Ukraine conflict, Putin discussed other international issues at the summit. He addressed the situation in Afghanistan, stating that the Taliban is a de facto government and a partner in the fight against terrorism. He also touched upon relations with the United States, warning that Russia might take “mirror-like actions” if the US deploys missiles.The SCO summit, attended by leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping, focused on strengthening multilateral dialogue and promoting sustainable peace and development. Putin called for a new architecture of cooperation, security, and development in Eurasia to replace what he termed as outdated Eurocentric and Euroatlantic models.
Key points
- Putin rejects the possibility of a ceasefire without irreversible agreements from Ukraine.
- Russia proposes using the ‘Istanbul Agreements’ as a basis for negotiations with Ukraine.
- Putin criticizes Western involvement in the Ukraine conflict and promotes the SCO as a counterbalance to Western influence.
- The Russian leader discusses broader international issues, including Afghanistan and relations with the US.
Contradictions👾While Putin expresses willingness to negotiate, he sets strict conditions that may be difficult for Ukraine to accept, potentially contradicting his stated openness to peace talks.
