Russia's Rejection of the Peace Plan
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov rejected key provisions of the peace plan discussed between the US and their partners. In particular, he expressed disagreement with the idea of 'freezing' the line of confrontation, as well as providing Ukraine with reliable security guarantees. Lavrov's statements were made on December 11, when he returned to the ultimatums that Russia presented to the US and NATO in December 2021.
Aspects of the Peace Process
The initial version of the peace plan consisted of 28 points, however, after discussions, this plan was reduced to 20 points. Among the important aspects raised in the context of the peace process, it should be noted that the status of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is currently under the control of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Furthermore, Russia continues to insist on halting the deployment of military forces in NATO member states that joined the alliance after 1997. It is important to note that Crimea, as well as the Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions were defined as 'subjects of the Russian Federation' in the constitution of the Russian Federation. These statements and Lavrov's positions indicate Moscow's refusal to compromise in the peace process and a return to tough rhetoric.
Russia's rejection of key elements of the peace plan indicates an escalation of tensions in the region and complicates the prospects of achieving a peaceful resolution of the conflict. Sergey Lavrov
Lavrov's position, based on tough demands, may lead to further escalation of the conflict, raising concerns within the international community. Control over the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and security issues remain critically important aspects that require urgent resolution for stability in the region.