Ukraine unclear about Russia's stance, Germany says 'defeating Moscow is impossible'
Ukraine remains unclear about Russia's position ahead of further talks in Türkiye. Germany's foreign minister said defeating Moscow's troops on the front line was "impossible".
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on May 31 that Kiev had not received any clear signals from Moscow ahead of the talks in Istanbul, Türkiye. He expressed concern that Russia would put forward unreasonable terms at the direct dialogue, Pravda newspaper reported.
"Up to now, we are still very vague about Russia's purpose in coming to Istanbul. No one has received any information from Moscow. Türkiye has not received it, the United States has not received it, and neither have our other partners. The Russian side does not seem to be very serious about the upcoming meeting," the Ukrainian president said.
During their first direct talks on May 16, Ukraine and Russia agreed to present a memorandum of understanding on the terms of ending the conflict. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov stressed that Kiev had shared its text with Moscow but had not yet received information from the other side.
Turkish President Erdogan has suggested that the second Russia-Ukraine talks in Istanbul should involve “high-level figures” to maintain momentum towards a peaceful solution. Russian and Ukrainian delegations are scheduled to meet again on June 2 in Istanbul.
German Foreign Minister Says Defeating Russia Is 'Impossible'
RT reported on May 31 that German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul recently affirmed that defeating Russia on the front line is "impossible" and the conflict in Ukraine can only end at the negotiating table.
"We should be more realistic about this issue. It is not feasible to inflict strategic defeat on a nuclear power like Russia. Although the Ukrainian army can still defend against Russian pressure, the conflict can only be resolved through negotiations," Mr. Wadephul emphasized.
However, the German foreign minister said that Berlin would still help Kiev achieve the best position in the negotiations. Mr. Wadephul also noted that Russia should not comment on Germany's plans to increase military spending.
Under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Germany has lifted range restrictions on weapons delivered to Ukraine. Merz is also considering sending Taurus missiles, which have a range of 500 km, to Kiev, a move Moscow has denounced as “irresponsible”.
