The European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaya Kallas, sharply criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent statements. In her opinion, Moscow does not have a genuine interest in peace negotiations with Ukraine that pass through Turkey.
“If Russia truly wants peace, why are Ukrainian cities still being bombarded?” Kallas questioned during her speech at the Democracy Summit held in Copenhagen on May 13.
“Russia is playing for time”
The European diplomat emphasized that it has been more than two months since Ukraine unconditionally agreed to a 30-day ceasefire. However, during this period, no positive steps have been observed from Russia.
“Russia is openly dragging out the process, aiming to better prepare itself tactically. This is not a pursuit of peace; it is a policy of prolonging the war,” Kallas said.
“Can Putin sit at the negotiating table?”
Kallas also commented on the potential direct meeting between Volodymyr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin. “If this meeting takes place, it would certainly be a good step. However, I believe Putin lacks the courage for such a move,” she said.
European leadership is vigilant
In recent weeks, a number of proposals have been put forward to halt the Russia-Ukraine war. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogʻan has offered Istanbul as a venue for negotiations. Ukraine has agreed, and the US has supported it. However, according to European diplomats, Russia is currently only engaging in verbal negotiations and is not ready to reduce military pressure in practice.
Zamin.uz editorial believes that peace must begin not just with words, but with practical action. Otherwise, every delayed negotiation means new victims and new devastation.
