**ISW Report: No Negotiations Will Lead to Sustainable Peace with Putin’s Demands**
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) recently released a report on 10 January highlighting the crucial impact of refusing negotiations on Putin’s demands for achieving sustainable peace between Ukraine and Russia. According to the report, peace negotiations between the two countries are unlikely to succeed unless Russian President Vladimir Putin remains steadfast in his demands, which include Ukraine’s demilitarization and the cession of significant territory in eastern and southern Ukraine to Russia.
**Trump’s Statements and Mixed Reactions**
Former US President-elect Donald Trump has made bold claims about his ability to end the war in Ukraine within “24 hours” and has even suggested proposals that involve ceding substantial Ukrainian territory to Russia during negotiations. Trump’s statements have sparked mixed reactions, with concerns emerging in Kyiv about potential concessions that could be made during negotiations.
**Preparations for a Meeting with Putin**
On 9 January, Donald Trump announced that preparations are underway for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, although no specific timeline has been provided. The Kremlin has expressed its readiness for talks with Trump without any “preconditions” while maintaining its unchanged position on Ukraine, as reported by the ISW.
**Putin’s Demands and Unwavering Stance**
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s demands towards Ukraine have remained consistent, with a focus on positions outlined in June 2024 and reiterated during his 19 December Direct Line presentation. These demands include the replacement of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his government under the guise of “denazification,” as well as Ukraine’s demilitarization and the cession of significant territory in eastern and southern Ukraine to Russia, including areas currently beyond Russian control.
According to the ISW, “No negotiations will result in a meaningful or sustainable peace as long as Putin remains committed to these demands, regardless of the Kremlin’s ‘willingness’ to engage in talks with Western leaders.”
It is evident from the ISW report that the road to sustainable peace in Ukraine hinges on the resolution of key issues related to Putin’s demands and the willingness of all parties to engage in meaningful negotiations. The stakes are high, and the outcome of these discussions could have far-reaching implications for the region and beyond. The international community will be closely monitoring developments as efforts to achieve lasting peace continue.
