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5d ago

Ukraine Peace Talks Downgraded After U.S. Withdrawals and Crimea Dispute

Ministerial-level negotiations in London were postponed as U.S. officials Rubio and Witkoff pulled out, while Ukraine reaffirmed its refusal to recognize Russian control over Crimea.

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Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov prepares for an interview with Russian TV channel "Izvestia" on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia, September 2, 2021. Alexander Zemlianichenko/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo

Overview

  • The UK confirmed that planned ministerial-level Ukraine peace talks were downgraded to official-level discussions after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoy Steve Witkoff withdrew.
  • Ukraine's delegation, led by Andrii Yermak, emphasized the need for a full and unconditional ceasefire as the first step toward peace negotiations.
  • President Zelensky reiterated Ukraine's refusal to recognize Russia's annexation of Crimea, calling it a violation of Ukraine's constitution and sovereignty.
  • The U.S. had proposed a framework recognizing Russian control over Crimea and offering sanctions relief, which was rejected by Ukraine and European allies.
  • While downgraded talks continue in London, Witkoff is set for bilateral discussions with President Putin in Moscow, reflecting the U.S. pursuit of parallel diplomatic channels.