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For several years, the Russian authorities, including dictator Vladimir Putin, have been insisting on conditions for ending the war that effectively amount to Ukraine’s complete surrender. This is stated in a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
Kremlin’s manipulation of Ukrainian legislation
ISW analysts note that Russian officials regularly use distortions of Ukrainian laws and the Constitution to undermine the legitimacy of the Ukrainian government. In particular, the Kremlin is trying to call into question the legitimacy of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s tenure because Ukraine did not hold elections in 2024 under martial law.
As a reminder, the Law of Ukraine “On the Legal Regime of Martial Law” provides for its cancellation only after the threat to the state independence and territorial integrity of the country is eliminated. Zelenskyy stressed that elections would be possible only after the “hot phase” of the war is over.
Ukrainian conditions for a just peace
President Zelenskyy outlined the conditions that must be met to achieve a just peace. He emphasised that:
- Ukraine needs a strong army, much larger than the 40-50,000 people that Russia demands.
- Western allies should provide long-term security guarantees.
- Ukraine’s future lies in NATO and the EU, which will be a reliable safeguard against new Russian aggression.
The Kremlin’s unchanging demands
Putin and his entourage continue to demand the surrender of Ukraine, in particular:
- Removal of the legitimate government.
- Demilitarisation of the Ukrainian army.
- Actual renunciation of territorial integrity.
ISW notes that these requirements have remained unchanged since 2021, despite the increased sanctions pressure and Russia’s failures on the frontline.
Ukraine is ready to fight
Zelenskyy has made it clear that peace requires victory on the battlefield. Only a strong army and international support can force Russia to agree to fair peace terms that will ensure Ukraine’s stable future as an independent, democratic and European state.
