Zelenskyy comments on chief EU diplomat's plan to discuss Russian concessions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has commented on reports that Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, is initiating a discussion with EU member states regarding a list of the concessions that Europe should demand from Russia as part of a potential agreement to end Russia's war against Ukraine.
Source: Zelenskyy during an online press briefing, as reported by European Pravda
Details: Kallas said on 10 February that in the coming days she will propose that EU countries discuss a list of the concessions that should be demanded from Russia as part of a potential deal to end the war.
Quote from Zelenskyy: "As regards the European Union's demands with respect to Russia, something is probably being worked on, but to be honest, I don't know the details, I am not aware of them. We are grateful to the European Union for its firm position that the Ukrainian children must definitely be returned."
More details: Zelenskyy said it was the first time he had heard of any suggestion that Russia might be asked to reduce its armed forces.
Quote: "That's like Russia demanding that we reduce our armed forces. I believe this is the sovereign right of any state. Of course we would prefer Russia's armed forces to be smaller, but I don't think Europe can influence that."
More details: Zelenskyy also commented on whether Europe should pursue its own direct dialogue with Russia.
Quote: "I believe that at present, Russia will only use this to humiliate Europe. In my view, both America and Europe should work together solely with Ukraine because it is solely our issues that are being raised. (…) America and Europe are definitely stronger together."
Background:
- Kallas said earlier that the fact that Ukraine is under enormous pressure to make painful concessions is a problem, and that this risks blurring the real issue: that Russia is responsible for the war.
- The EU reportedly intends to upgrade two military training centres in Ukraine as part of its security guarantees.
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