Ukraine must be terrified! After the talks between the US and Russia fell apart, a Russian representative made a bold statement on the spot! Vladimir Medinsky, the Russian negotiation representative and special assistant to the President, directly told the Ukrainian representatives during the Istanbul talks that we do not want war, but we are ready to fight for a year, two years, three years - however long it takes. We once fought Sweden for 21 years. How long are you prepared to fight?
Obviously, Ukraine's representatives probably did not expect that not only were Russia's ceasefire conditions for Ukraine extremely harsh, but the resolute attitude shown by the Russian representatives also greatly shocked the Ukrainian side. The message from Russia is clear: they are fully prepared for a protracted war. If Ukraine is willing to fight, then Russia will continue fighting.
In terms of momentum at the negotiating table, Russia clearly outmatched Ukraine. Russia presented four conditions to Ukraine: first, cede four regions of land; second, limit the size of its army to 85,000 personnel! As for not joining NATO and lifting sanctions on Russia, all these are conditions placed on the negotiating table by the Russian representatives. It is unlikely that anyone in Ukraine would dare to sign these conditions; signing them would be considered treason.
In terms of negotiation skills, Russia clearly came prepared, and if Ukraine does not accept them, Russia may escalate its demands further. Facing Russia's strong stance, Ukraine might feel uneasy. With pressure being applied by the US from behind, European aid not being particularly supportive, and Russia being aggressive, Ukraine faces a difficult choice: cease fire or continue fighting.
Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1832334581171209/
Disclaimer: This article solely represents the views of the author.