What Ukraine would be willing to give up to end Russia's war | DW News

Key Concepts

• Ukrainian Independence Day (celebrating separation from the Soviet Union in 1991)
• President Zelensky's call for steadfastness, courage, and a European Ukraine
• The need for a "just peace" where Ukraine decides its future
• Kira Rudik's (Ukrainian Parliament member, Holos party leader) perspective on Independence Day and the war
• The importance of arming Ukraine as a deterrent
• Security guarantees from Western allies (weapons, financial support, air defense, weapon usage)
• The possibility of freezing the conflict along current fighting lines
• Engaging the Global South for diplomatic and security support
• Russian asset usage for Ukrainian defense

1. Independence Day and National Sentiment

• Ukraine is celebrating its Independence Day, marking its separation from the Soviet Union in 1991.
• President Zelensky called on Ukrainians to remain steadfast in the face of Russia's invasion, praising their courage and envisioning a European future for Ukraine.
• Zelensky emphasized the need for a "just peace" where Ukraine alone determines its future, asserting that the world respects Ukraine and treats it as an equal.
• Kira Rudik highlighted the significance of Independence Day, emphasizing that "freedom is not free" and that Russia has been attempting to destroy Ukraine for centuries.
• Rudik noted that despite initial expectations of a quick defeat, Ukraine has remained united and is fighting with the support of allies.
• The current generation aims to end the war so future generations won't have to fight it over and over.

2. Potential Negotiations and Territorial Integrity

• Calls for a meeting between Presidents Zelensky and Putin are increasing.
• Ukraine's goal in such a meeting would be to assert that it will not cede territory but is open to finding a way to end the fighting.
• Rudik mentioned an initiative by President Trump for an unconditional ceasefire and a rare minerals deal to give the United States an interest in Ukraine's future, but there has been no confirmation from the Kremlin.
• Ukraine does not want to give President Trump a way to say that they are standing in the way of peace.
• While there is no appetite for ceding territory where Ukrainians live, Rudik suggested a possibility of freezing the conflict along the current fighting lines, without relinquishing any territory controlled by Ukraine.

3. Security Guarantees and Military Support

• Ukraine seeks strong security guarantees from Western allies, prioritizing self-reliance due to potential shifts in European leadership and policies.
• The primary goal is to arm Ukraine to the teeth to act as a deterrent against future aggression, including selling weapons and providing financial support for weapon purchases.
• Rudik emphasized the potential use of frozen Russian assets in Europe (at least 300 billion euros) for this purpose.
• Ukraine urgently needs help protecting its skies, a request made since the beginning of the conflict, especially given Russia's nightly attacks on peaceful cities.
• Ukraine seeks the removal of limitations on the usage of certain weapons, which currently hinder their effectiveness in targeting military objects inside Russia.

4. Engaging the Global South

• President Zelensky spoke with South African President Ramaphosa, seeking greater involvement from the Global South.
• Increased engagement from the Global South could significantly impact diplomacy, global security, and the involvement of African citizens fighting on Russia's side.
• Ukraine aims to better communicate its role in feeding the Global South and emphasize that disruptions are due to Russian attacks on Ukrainian ports.
• Ukraine seeks support from African countries in pressuring Russia to end the war.

5. Notable Quotes

• President Zelensky: "A peace where our future will be decided only by us."
• Kira Rudik: "Freedom is not free."
• Kira Rudik: "Our goal right now is to make sure that the next generations wouldn't have to fight that the war would end on us."

6. Technical Terms and Concepts

• Holos: The name of Kira Rudik's political party, which translates to "voice" in English.
• Security Guarantees: Commitments from other nations to protect Ukraine from future aggression, including military and financial aid.
• Frozen Russian Assets: Funds and properties belonging to the Russian government and individuals that have been seized by Western countries as a sanction.

7. Synthesis/Conclusion

The interview highlights Ukraine's unwavering commitment to its independence and territorial integrity amidst the ongoing Russian invasion. While open to exploring peaceful resolutions, Ukraine insists on a "just peace" that respects its sovereignty. Securing robust security guarantees, particularly through military aid and the strategic use of frozen Russian assets, is crucial for deterring future aggression. Engaging the Global South is seen as a vital step in bolstering diplomatic pressure on Russia and ensuring continued humanitarian support. The overall message is one of resilience, determination, and a clear vision for Ukraine's future as a secure and independent European nation.