Ukraine's National Security and Defense Secretary, Oleksandr Litvinenko, stated that Russia is not ready for serious negotiations. He emphasized that discussions with Russia can only occur from a position of strength.
Litvinenko highlighted the challenge of bringing President Putin to the negotiating table, noting that the strategic culture of Russians differs from that of the West. He called for increased military support for Ukraine to help defeat Russia and prevent the war from spreading to other territories.
He also commented on the ongoing Ukrainian military operation in Russia's Kursk region, indicating that it aims to prevent an invasion of Sumy and boost Ukrainian morale. He expressed confidence in the capabilities of Ukrainian soldiers despite the significant reserves available to Russian forces.
Additionally, Ukrainian diplomat Andriy Melnyk mentioned that Ukraine is open to Germany acting as a mediator in negotiations with Russia, reflecting a level of trust in German involvement.
Meanwhile, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer proposed that negotiations between Russia and Ukraine should occur without preconditions, suggesting Austria as a potential venue due to its hosting of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe.