Violating Russia’s or Ukraine’s constitution? Expert on key debate at Saudi Arabia talks

He said this on the Espreso TV channel.

“Most likely, there will also be a Russian delegation in Jeddah, and after meeting with the Ukrainians, the Americans will communicate with the Russians. At the moment, the Americans are trying to mediate between the two countries. They are constantly using the tactic of dragging the Russians to the negotiating table. Whether the Ukrainian plan, which the Ukrainian delegation is set to present, aligns with the U.S. vision remains to be seen because we have repeatedly observed that we propose certain initiatives, but unfortunately, these initiatives are not always well received in the White House,” Shlinchak noted.

According to the head of the Institute for World Policy, Trump has his own specific vision for ending the war, and it will be influenced by how the meeting with the Kremlin leader unfolds, as this meeting is being prepared and could take place soon, possibly within the next week.

“In Saudi Arabia, the discussions will focus on legal aspects. The key question is whether we will legally recognize the territories currently under Russian occupation. I believe this issue will generate the most debate. Because, to be honest, we currently lack the capability to reclaim the occupied territories, yet we are not ready to give them up either. Meanwhile, the Russians insist on keeping not only the occupied territories but also those that are enshrined in Russia’s constitution but are not under their control. So the main issue here is: should we violate Russia’s constitution or Ukraine’s constitution? This is the core topic of discussion,” Shlinchak explained.

He added that the Americans have repeatedly stated that while Ukraine may not legally recognize the occupied territories, it must acknowledge de facto that these territories are lost for the time being.

“However, Russia wants legal recognition. Russia does not even want a ceasefire or any agreements based on a so-called line of demarcation. They want a major agreement, and for them, the issue of ceasing hostilities is impossible without signing a comprehensive peace treaty, which would outline security guarantees for both Ukraine and Russia,” Shlinchak emphasized.

• The Ukrainian and American delegations arrived in Saudi Arabia for negotiations on Tuesday, March 11.