Valentina Matviyenko: Ukraine Talks to Begin in 2023; No Compromises on Core Russian Demands
Russian Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko has expressed confidence that negotiations with Ukraine will commence in the next year, according to Tass news agency. In a meeting with journalists on December 24, Matviyenko stated that while talks will be challenging, Russia is prepared to engage in compromises, provided its fundamental conditions are met.
"We will definitely start negotiations next year," Matviyenko said, emphasizing she was sharing her personal perspective. She cautioned, however, that these negotiations would be complex. "This will not be easy," she noted. Matviyenko underscored that Russia’s position remains consistent and non-negotiable, echoing President Vladimir Putin’s previous statements on the matter.
Matviyenko further elaborated that Moscow is ready to engage in discussions at any time but is unwavering in its stance. "What we’ve gone through with the Minsk agreements will not be repeated," she affirmed.
Previously, Putin outlined several conditions for conflict resolution in Ukraine, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from certain territories, the lifting of sanctions, Ukraine’s refusal to join NATO, and the guarantee of rights for Russian-speaking citizens in Ukraine.
As the situation unfolds, Russia maintains its resolve, with Matviyenko’s declarations providing insight into her country’s preparedness for dialogue with Ukraine in the year ahead.
