Ukraine proposes 'Zelensky Format' in resolving Donbass issue

Ukrainian Foreign Minister. Photo: Reuters

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristayko said that the "Zelensky Format" in Donbass plays a role in restoring peace in the region for a period of 6 months to 1 year.

Above all, we have at least 6 months to 1 year. And the "Zelensky Format" will end with the following statement: We do not have 5 years or more to continue negotiations. This is the condition of the "Zelensky Format" - the Ukrainian Foreign Minister emphasized, adding that all steps will be taken to "meet the expectations of the people".

But if the Donbass issue cannot be resolved in the near future, the Ukrainian side will need to "move to new radical measures". This is also a condition in the "Zelensky Format".

The Ukrainian Foreign Minister further explained that the "Zelensky Format" also includes conditions for ending the war in Donbass in the near future, in particular the exchange of prisoners held between Russia and Ukraine.

The peaceful settlement of the conflict in Donbass is based on the Minsk agreements. The terms of the agreements include not only a ceasefire, withdrawal of weapons, amnesty, and resumption of economic relations, but also a deep constitutional reform in Ukraine, the result of which is the decentralization of power, taking into account the special situation of the Donetsk and Lugansk regions. However, so far, Kiev has not implemented these plans in accordance with the agreements.