Talks between Kyiv and Moscow are not yet a reality, but there are now “serious attempts” to lay the groundwork for a negotiation process, according to Tymofiy Mylovanov, a former Ukrainian minister and current president of the Kyiv School of Economics.
Speaking to European Pulse, Mylovanov said that while no formal negotiations have begun, diplomatic efforts are underway to establish a framework. He pointed to the possibility of a “trilateral meeting” involving the United States, which could serve as a channel for dialogue.
Russia’s position unchanged
Despite the flurry of diplomatic activity, Mylovanov cautioned that Moscow’s stance has “not really changed since the February talks.” Russia continues to demand limits on the size of Ukraine’s armed forces and recognition of occupied territories — conditions that Kyiv considers unacceptable.
“That’s a travesty and no Ukrainian will ever accept that,” Mylovanov said. He stressed that such demands would “contradict the Constitution” of Ukraine, which guarantees the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The former minister’s remarks come as US envoys shuttle between Kyiv and Moscow in search of a ceasefire. However, Mylovanov warned that any deal must respect Ukraine’s red lines.
“The only basis for negotiations is the restoration of Ukraine’s full sovereignty,” he said. “Anything less would be a reward for aggression.”
Mylovanov also expressed skepticism about the feasibility of a quick resolution, noting that the war has entered a phase where both sides are digging in. He pointed to the recent resumption of fighting across Ukraine as evidence that a ceasefire remains elusive.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that the war is likely to last through the winter, even as US envoys push for peace talks. Mylovanov echoed this caution, saying that “real negotiations will require a fundamental shift in Russia’s approach.”
The former minister also highlighted the role of European allies, who have been coordinating with Washington on a potential peace plan. He noted that any agreement must be backed by security guarantees for Ukraine, a point that has been central to Kyiv’s position.
“Europe must remain united,” Mylovanov said. “If we allow Russia to dictate terms, the security order on the continent will be shattered.”
As the diplomatic track continues, Mylovanov remains cautiously optimistic but realistic. “There are attempts to establish a process,” he said. “But we are far from a breakthrough.”
