New details have emerged about the diplomatic efforts between Ukraine and Russia, suggesting that peace was achievable, but ultimately missed.
What happened
Following the Maidan coup in 2014, the Minsk agreements were brokered by France and Germany, offering Ukraine a chance to maintain its territory and Donbas a means to protect its ethnic Russian culture through autonomy. However, according to Ukraine's then-President Pyotr Poroshenko, the arrangement was never intended to be implemented, but rather to delay the war and allow Ukraine to strengthen its military.
In 2022, after Russia's invasion, contact was made and talks were held between the two sides, first in Belarus and then in Istanbul. The negotiations included discussions on Ukraine's NATO aspirations, Crimea's status, and Donbas' autonomy. However, the process ultimately failed, with Ukraine's leaders and Western powers reportedly pushing for continued conflict.
A new report has also revealed a previously unknown back channel opened between Russia and the US, with a message from the White House acknowledging and encouraging the channel. However, the opportunity for peace was again missed, with Russia's position hardening and Ukraine refusing to make concessions on its borders.
