As reported by Reuters, Russia has presented the U.S. with a list of demands aimed at ending the war in Ukraine and resetting relations with Washington.
While the exact details remain unclear, Reuters reports Moscow’s terms are broad and similar to previous demands. Previous demands have included barring Ukraine from NATO, preventing foreign troop deployments there, and recognizing Russian claims over Crimea and four Ukrainian provinces. Russia has also insisted that the U.S. and NATO address what it calls the “root causes” of the war, including NATO’s expansion eastward.
Discussions between Russian and U.S. officials have taken place over the past three weeks, both virtually and in person. However, it remains uncertain whether Moscow is willing to enter peace talks with Kyiv before its conditions are met. Some U.S. officials and experts worry that any ceasefire could be used by Russia to sow division among Ukraine’s allies and strengthen its position.
Separately, Reuters reports that Russia is also asking businesses to propose which Western sanctions should be lifted ahead of negotiations with the U.S.
Many Russian firms consider restrictions on cross-border payments, particularly those blocking access to dollar transactions and the SWIFT banking system, to be the most damaging. Moscow is also reportedly concerned about energy sanctions, including limits on its oil tanker fleet.
U.S. officials have suggested that easing some restrictions could be part of a broader negotiation, but European leaders have largely taken a harder stance.
Meanwhile, Washington remains divided on how to approach peace talks, with some officials supporting past negotiation frameworks, while others argue for a completely new deal. It remains unclear whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to agree to any truce or concessions.
