Photo: EPA
Some diplomats describe the demands as “maximalist,” but they mirror the conditions proposed by the aggressor state itself.
Kaja Kallas, head of European diplomacy, circulated a document to EU member states titled “Europe’s Core Interests in Securing a Comprehensive, Just, and Lasting Peace and Security on the Continent”, outlining the steps Russia must take to achieve peace in Ukraine. The document calls for a reduction of occupying forces, withdrawal from neighboring countries, payment of reparations, and implementation of democratic reforms.
Although the EU is not directly represented at the negotiation table recently involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States, its member states fund a significant portion of support to Kyiv. The document also includes points within the EU’s competence, including Ukraine’s potential accession. European officials stress that sustainable peace is impossible without considering their interests. One official stated, “Achieving peace is not just about concessions from Ukraine. We also need to discuss what Russia must do before sending any envoy,” while another described the EU’s demands as “maximalist,” noting they align with Russia’s own proposals.
Key concessions Brussels is demanding:
- If Kyiv agrees to reduce the size of its armed forces and withdraw from some frontline areas, Moscow must reciprocate.
- Occupied territories should not be recognized de jure and must be demilitarized.
- Russia must cease disinformation campaigns, sabotage, cyberattacks, and airspace violations against Europe.
- No interference in elections in European and neighboring countries.
- Remove nuclear weapons from Belarus.
- End Russian military presence in Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and Armenia.
- No general amnesty for war crimes.
- Provide international investigators access to sites of potential crimes.
- International obligations must take precedence over Russian domestic law.
- Pay reparations to Ukraine, European states, companies, and cover environmental damages.
- Hold elections in Russia under international supervision.
- Release political prisoners.
- Return deported civilians and children.
- Respect media freedom.
- Repeal laws restricting independent media and civil society.
- Cooperate in investigations into the deaths of opposition politicians Alexei Navalny and Boris Nemtsov.
According to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, EU ambassadors will discuss the document, and select provisions may be forwarded to the bloc’s foreign ministers for consideration.
