Zelenskyy for the first time allowed the discussion of security guarantees for Russia after the war, according to the FT

Speaking to reporters in Kyiv, Zelenskyy stated that Western countries may eventually discuss Moscow’s demands for security guarantees. At the same time, he emphasized that Ukraine’s own security must be guaranteed first, according to The Financial Times.

What did Zelenskyy say about security guarantees for Russia?

Until now, Kyiv and its Western allies have rejected Russia’s demands for security guarantees from NATO and a sweeping overhaul of the European security architecture.

They have viewed such initiatives as an attempt by Moscow to restore its sphere of influence and undermine the sovereignty of neighboring states.

“First, we need to resolve the issue of this war, and only then seek answers to the questions raised by Russia, based on its own views and expectations regarding security,”– Zelenskyy said.

The publication notes that Zelenskyy’s statements regarding Russia’s demands for security guarantees reflect Kyiv’s concern over the new rapprochement between Russia and the U.S.

According to the Ukrainian president, he has received indications of a possible reduction in the U.S. military presence in Europe.

In my opinion, security guarantees for Russia – as Russia itself understands them – mean a change in the security architecture in Europe and the world– Zelenskyy said.

Last August, during a press conference with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Zelenskyy rejected Russia’s demands for security guarantees.

“When Russia raises the issue of security guarantees, I honestly don’t understand who is threatening it. It attacked us; it is on our soil. I don’t quite understand what kind of guarantees an aggressor needs. Guarantees of what?” the president said at the time.

Rutte and key NATO leaders have long rejected Russia’s demands to discuss security guarantees before a final peace agreement is concluded with Ukraine.

They also oppose any agreements on European security that would be concluded without the participation and consent of European countries.

Three months before the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Putin demanded significant restrictions on NATO.

In particular, he insisted on a ban on further expansion of the Alliance, the withdrawal of troops and equipment from countries bordering Russia, and restrictions on certain military deployments and exercises.

European governments rejected these proposals, viewing them as an encroachment on the sovereignty of their states.