No talks behind Ukraine's back - diplomat Yelchenko on possible US-Russia negotiations

Diplomat and former Ambassador of Ukraine to the US and Russia, Volodymyr Yelchenko, said this on Espreso TV.

“I don't think we should consider it a betrayal. We need to wait for some information, as we cannot confirm or deny the fact of negotiations. If they are taking place, then there are many bilateral issues. Among other things, this may be another Chinese warning about the non-use of nuclear weapons by Russia. It can also be used by the American side to convey to Russia the real reaction of the US to the situation at the front. Certain warnings regarding cooperation with Iran can be foreseen as well,” he said.

According to Yelchenko, if the negotiations really take place, then the head of the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service Sergey Naryshkin will tell how Western weapons are prolonging the conflict.

“It is clear that this will not have any effect on the position of the Americans. The place of the meeting is of no fundamental importance, but Turkey is a comfortable place for both sides. Such contacts have always existed. If someone thinks that such things can be discussed behind our backs, this is not the case. The Americans always warn and inform our side through diplomatic or other channels. They discuss what Ukraine would like to be said on its behalf. There will be no secrecy - there will be nothing behind Ukraine's back,” the diplomat concluded.

• Earlier, the Russian Kommersant reported that negotiations between the delegations of Russia and the US are taking place in Ankara, the capital of Turkey.