Following Russia’s announcement that it intends to focus on “liberating the Donbass” in the Ukraine war in the future, the Kiev government fears that the situation in Mariupol and the east of the country will deteriorate. “This means a potential or strong deterioration around Mariupol,” said Ukraine’s presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych.
Guido Tiefenthaler (text), Lukas Krummholz (image), Birgit Samer (video), Georg Filzmoser (editing), all ORF.at
With regard to negotiations with Russia in Turkey, which begin today, according to Ukrainian information, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed demands the night before. There will only be a “deal” if Russian troops leave Ukraine. Either way, they are ready to discuss neutral status for Ukraine – with security guarantees in return.
For “compromise” on the Donbass issue
As for the Donbass, Zelensky advocated a “compromise” with Russia. He understands that it is impossible to completely expel Russia from Ukrainian territory, as this would lead to a third world war. Zelensky called Russia’s accusations that Ukraine has chemical weapons a “joke”.
The talks Zelensky was referring to are scheduled to start today in Turkey and last until Wednesday. Negotiations at the ministerial level had already taken place in Antalya on 10 March, but did not bring any concrete progress.
Russian chief negotiator Vladimir Medinski said on Friday that talks were not progressing on key issues. The head of the Ukrainian military intelligence service fears a division of Ukraine similar to that of North and South Korea. Russia “failed in its attempt to take Kiev and overthrow the Ukrainian government,” Kyrylo Budanov wrote on Facebook on Sunday.
Debate: What will be the impact of the war?
Russian President Vladimir Putin continues the war in Ukraine despite international appeals and sanctions. How effective are sanctions? Why is Ukraine so alone? What is the best way to help refugees? What effects will the war have?
Discuss with debate.ORF.at!