The Kremlin has stayed silent on a leaked document outlining Russia’s proposed peace terms for Ukraine, even as senior officials publicly pressured Kyiv to “accept reality” and negotiate. The draft, reported by Western intelligence sources, reportedly includes demands for territorial concessions, Ukrainian neutrality, and security guarantees—terms already rejected by Kyiv.
BBC Russia editor Steve Rosenberg noted the Kremlin’s unusual stance: “Officials won’t confirm or deny the document’s authenticity, but their message to Ukraine is unmistakable: resistance is futile.”
Leaked Peace Plan: Key Demands
While unverified, analysts say the terms mirror Russia’s long-term goals:
1. Recognition of annexed territories (Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia).
2. Neutrality pledge—no NATO membership, restricted Western arms.
3. Demilitarization—caps on Ukraine’s military strength.
4. Russian security veto—potential control over Kyiv’s foreign policy.
Ukraine’s response was swift. Mykhailo Podolyak, adviser to President Zelensky, called it a “surrender ultimatum,” adding, “This rewards aggression, not diplomacy.”
Kremlin’s Contradictions
Spokesman Dmitry Peskov dodged questions on the leak but repeated Moscow’s call for Kyiv to “recognize realities”—code for accepting territorial losses. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned Western support would “prolong the suffering.”
Rosenberg noted the tactic: “Silence keeps options open, while ‘accept reality’ hints these terms are non-negotiable.”
Will Ukraine or the West Budge?
Zelensky’s peace plan demands a full Russian withdrawal and accountability for war crimes—directly opposing Moscow’s vision. The U.S. and EU have backed Ukraine, but some analysts warn of growing fatigue.
“Russia’s betting on Western pressure forcing Kyiv to compromise,” said Carnegie’s Tatiana Stanovaya. “Time is their weapon.”
Why the Leak Now?
Possible motives:
– Testing Western unity: Will allies soften their stance?
– Undermining Ukrainian morale: Framing resistance as hopeless.
– Preparing Russians for a long war or frozen conflict.
As Rosenberg summarized: “Moscow won’t show its hand, but it’s urging Kyiv to fold.”
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