The latest round of peace talks between Ukraine and Russia takes place in Istanbul today. Much like previous negotiations, they are proceeding as Moscow lays siege to Mariupol, shells population centres and amid reports of thousands of civilians being forcibly deported to Russia.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has intimated he is prepared to accept Ukrainian neutrality, a key Kremlin demand, and compromise over the status of the Donbas as part of a wider deal. However, any final settlement would be subject to a referendum.
Given the horrific violence and bloodshed being endured by ordinary Ukrainians, peace talks provide hope, though there are understandable fears they are being used as a smokescreen for further Russian aggression. The reality is that the progress of the war and which side holds what territory will play a large role in the negotiations.
As such, the West must continue to supply Ukraine with defensive weaponry while applying maximum pressure on Russia through divestment and sanctions.
Loose talk, such as Joe Biden’s comments that Vladimir Putin “cannot remain in power”, is unhelpful. It was a misstep in an otherwise impressive speech. We may all wish that the Russian President, who started this war and who is responsible for widespread death, misery and repression abroad and at home, were removed. But it was a misstep for Biden to call for it, as it plays into Putin’s propaganda on the West’s ultimate aims.
We must remain laser-focused on what we can do to help Ukrainians defend their country.
