Even if Russia does not present the memorandum demanded by Ukraine, Kyiv may face pressure from the U.S. to participate with a delegation in the talks with Russia scheduled for June 2 in Istanbul, APA reports citing The Washington Post.
It is noted that since Ukraine depends on U.S. military and intelligence aid, Washington has the ability to pressure Kyiv to participate in the negotiations.
Earlier, Ukraine’s Defense Minister and head of the Ukrainian delegation in the talks, Rustem Umerov stated that Kyiv is not opposed to a meeting with Russia. However, it is waiting for Moscow to present the memorandum before starting the negotiations.
Russian President’s press secretary Dmitry Peskov said that Ukraine’s demand is unconstructive. He emphasized that the main issue is to continue the direct negotiation process.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced that the second round of negotiations with Ukraine is planned to be held on June 2 in Istanbul. The minister noted that the head of the Russian delegation Vladimir Medinsky will present to Kyiv a memorandum covering all aspects of the main causes of the crisis.
Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak noted yesterday that Ukraine insists that the Russian side deliver the draft memorandum before the meeting begins.
“Ukraine is ready for the next meeting, but we want to conduct constructive discussions. This means it is important to obtain Russia’s draft. There is enough time – four days are sufficient to prepare and send the documents,” Yermak added.
Recall that the first round of Russia-Ukraine talks took place on May 16 in Istanbul. During the meeting, an initial view was presented on a prisoner exchange based on the “1000 for 1000” principle and a possible ceasefire. Both sides stated they were satisfied with the results of the talks.