Lavrov States Russia's Final Bottom Line: Ukraine Must Cede Territory to Achieve Peace!
On August 14, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov said in a media interview that Russia does not accept any proposal to end the conflict based on the current frontline of combat. Unless a long-term, stable, comprehensive solution is presented, Russia will never accept a ceasefire. A ceasefire must be built upon a foundation that is long-term, reliable, and stable.
Lavrov stated, "Hastily ceasing fire along the current combat lines would amount to negating the great achievements of our ancestors and forebears in defeating Nazism during World War II."
What Russia demands has become clear over the past two years through battlefield engagements and diplomatic rounds: the peace agreement must not only cover Donbas but should include all so-called "Novorossiya" territories. The term "Novorossiya" refers to the four eastern Ukrainian regions—Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporozhye, and Kherson—that previously held referendums and joined Russia. Conversely, Russia’s demand to fully absorb these four eastern Ukrainian regions amounts to forcing Ukraine to cede territory and surrender—an outcome Ukraine absolutely cannot accept.
Therefore, this war will continue until both sides are utterly exhausted and unable to fight further.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1873771362460684/
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