Russia's demand that Ukraine withdraw troops from Donbas is unworkable – Ukraine's foreign minister

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has stated that Ukraine will not agree to Russia's demand that Ukrainian troops be withdrawn from Donbas, calling it an unworkable ultimatum, and stressed that Kyiv will not accept any initiatives at the cost of its territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Source: Sybiha at ADF Talks, a public discussion at the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum, on 17 April, as reported by Interfax-Ukraine

Details: Sybiha said Ukraine is willing to agree to an unconditional ceasefire followed by monitoring and has a corresponding plan.

However, he emphasised that several sensitive issues remain unresolved.

Quote: "We have a 20-point plan. Yes, several points, the more sensitive ones, have still not been agreed on. And that's understandable – how could Ukraine accept this demand or ultimatum that we withdraw our troops from Donbas? It's unworkable."

Details: Sybiha also noted that Russia is demanding that Ukraine recognise its jurisdiction over the occupied territories, which entails the use of Russian currency and national symbols.

"Ukraine will never accept any initiative at the cost of our territorial integrity and sovereignty. This is our position," he stressed.

Previously: Vadym Skibitskyi, Deputy Head of Ukraine's Defence Intelligence, has reported that Russia is preparing a new spring-summer offensive in Ukraine's southeast, drawing on strategic reserves and planning to increase its military presence in Ukraine by a further 20,000 troops.

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