Russia Moscow will not take part in second peace summit
According to the Foreign Ministry, Russia does not want to take part in a possible second peace summit on Ukraine. Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galusin told the state news agency Ria in Moscow that Kiev's ideas for a follow-up meeting to the conference in Switzerland in mid-June were known.
11.07.2024, 09:38
SDA
From the Russian point of view, the meeting would once again only focus on the proposals of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi, while other peace initiatives would be ignored. "For us, such ultimatums are unacceptable and we will not take part in such summits," said Galusin.
He referred to a report by the Bloomberg news agency, according to which Ukraine is actively working on a second conference, this time involving Russia. It should take place before the US elections in November if possible, as support for Ukraine is uncertain following a possible victory for Republican Donald Trump, it was said.
Important states did not sign in Switzerland
The first summit on the Bürgenstock near Lucerne was organized by Switzerland at Ukraine's request. It was not about concrete peace negotiations. Ukraine wanted to mobilize international support for the principles according to which the war should be ended. Around 80 countries signed up to the final declaration. However, important countries with good relations with Russia, such as India and Saudi Arabia, did not sign. China did not attend the conference. Saudi Arabia is considered a possible host for a second meeting.
Russia invaded Ukraine almost two and a half years ago. Moscow repeatedly emphasizes its alleged willingness to negotiate. However, all the conditions imposed amount to large Ukrainian territorial cessions and the subjugation of the neighboring country. Ukraine is demanding the return of its occupied territories, including the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which it annexed in 2014.
