The Kremlin is attempting to shape the terms of any potential “peace” negotiations with Ukraine in advance of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump taking office. Recent statements from Russia indicate that its objectives remain unchanged, with a continued demand for Ukraine’s complete submission.
There is no indication that Moscow plans to make any new concessions to the Trump administration compared to its current approach with U.S. leadership.
On November 13, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, accused Western officials of misleading the public about their intentions for peace in Ukraine. She asserted that genuine “peace” can only be achieved if the West ceases all military support to Ukraine. This demand highlights Russia’s insistence that Western nations end their assistance as a precondition for talks, reflecting a firm stance from Moscow.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reinforced this uncompromising position, suggesting that Trump’s presidency will not bring a change to the U.S. stance on Ukraine.
Lavrov rejected any suggestions for a ceasefire or a “frozen conflict,” calling them even less acceptable than the Minsk Agreements, which were set up following Russia’s initial invasion of Ukraine in 2014.
The Kremlin’s strict preconditions signal that Russia’s goals remain centered on securing control over Ukraine rather than pursuing a genuine diplomatic solution.
By insisting on an end to Western military support, Moscow seems determined to pressure Ukraine into accepting terms that strongly favor Russian interests, allowing minimal space for compromise in future talks.
