Ukrainian FM: Will not accept peace at any cost, Russia must not have veto power over Ukraine's NATO accession

In a speech at the Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada on Friday, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Serhiyenko stated that within the framework of a peace settlement, Russia must not have veto power over Ukraine's accession to NATO.

Serhiyenko pointed out that Ukraine will not accept "peace at any cost," and outlined Kyiv's red lines for peace talks, describing them as "clear and unchanging." He stated: "Firstly, we will not agree to recognize any temporarily occupied Ukrainian territory as Russian territory."

Serhiyenko added that Ukraine will not accept any restrictions or reductions in the structure or size of its armed forces, cuts to its defense industry, or limitations on military assistance from allies or the stationing of allied troops.

"Thirdly, we will not accept any restrictions on Ukraine's sovereignty, internal or external policies, including our choice of alliances and groups," Serhiyenko said.

Serhiyenko acknowledged that there is currently no consensus among allies regarding Ukraine's accession to NATO, but stated that Kyiv will continue to "actively work towards reaching an agreement." He added, "However, neither Russia nor any other country can veto our choices now or in the future."

Serhiyenko also stated during the government inquiry session at the Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada on Friday that Ukraine insists on increasing pressure on Russia, with a focus on the world increasingly understanding the Kremlin's hybrid manipulation strategies, whether it be an Easter ceasefire or a May 9th ceasefire.

"Now, we are witnessing a new hybrid manipulation strategy from the Kremlin, where they try to pressure us with Easter or ceremonial ceasefires. We also see more and more people around the world recognizing that all this is manipulation by Russia, openly mocking the peace efforts of the United States and other partners," Serhiyenko said.

"We believe that now is the time to increase pressure on Moscow to force it to achieve peace. Military deterrence and economic pressure can do this and prevent further aggression," he noted. He also mentioned, "Ukraine clearly and consistently advocates for unconditional comprehensive ceasefires on land, sea, and air. At least a 30-day ceasefire. We are ready."

"Russia must agree to a genuine, complete, and unconditional ceasefire and confidence-building measures, such as returning Ukrainian prisoners of war, kidnapped children, and civilian hostages first. Only under the conditions of a comprehensive ceasefire and humanitarian confidence-building measures can negotiations begin - in any form, achieving peace," Serhiyenko said.

Source: rfi

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1831025529286659/

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