Ukraine lays out prerequisites for negotiations with Russia

Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, stated that defining the rules of engagement is the primary requirement for any potential negotiations with Russia.

In an interview with Report's Eastern European bureau, Podolyak pointed out that while Russia expresses readiness for talks, it simultaneously demands a significant portion of Ukrainian territories and insists on Ukraine relinquishing its sovereign right to conduct foreign and domestic policies.

The advisor suggested that Ukraine must intensify its military strikes along the front line, targeting Russia's territory, military facilities, and logistical infrastructure for real talks. In essence, he advocated for bringing the war to Russia's doorstep.

Furthermore, Podolyak called for harsher sanctions against Russia, urging European companies to withdraw from the Russian market. He also emphasized that countries, including former Soviet states, that enable Moscow to circumvent sanctions should face repercussions themselves.