PACE Launches 'Dialogue Platform with Russian Democratic Forces'
In late January 2026, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) established a 'Dialogue Platform with Russian Democratic Forces'. This body includes 15 representatives: 10 politicians and civil activists, plus 5 delegates from Russia's indigenous peoples. The Ukrainian delegation, however, declined to endorse the initiative, opposing any formal representation for Russians within PACE. This move highlights the deep divisions that persist over how to engage with Russian opposition figures while the war continues.
Criticism Over Yulia Navalnaya's Inclusion
Andriy Volna, a trauma surgeon who has operated on wounded Ukrainian defenders in Kyiv for over two years, criticized the participation of Yulia Navalnaya and the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) in the platform. He stated:
“Yulia Navalnaya cannot participate, if for no other reason than she did not sign the Berlin Declaration. That's first. Second, the reputation of the Anti-Corruption Foundation, which she represents, is completely lost. They have never taken a pro-Ukrainian position. What the hell are they needed in PACE for? We will not speak with them. Not only Ukrainians—I personally will not even talk to them.” - Andriy Volna
The platform is intended as a forum for dialogue with Russians who fled their homeland in 2022 and hold anti-war views. Among the indigenous representatives is Pavel Sulyandziga, a member of the Udege people. According to the 2021 Russian census, the Udege number 1,325 individuals. Other groups mentioned as potentially seeking their own statehood include:
- Bashkirs
- Buryats
- Tatarstan
- Peoples of the North Caucasus, primarily Ichkeria
It was separately noted that a movement has begun aimed at separating Ingermanland, which includes the city of Saint Petersburg.
Andriy Volna further emphasized that “only Ukraine's victory can trigger substantial transformations in the territory that is currently the Russian empire.” These comments underscore the Ukrainian delegation's stance against dialogue with Russian forces lacking a clear pro-Ukrainian position. The establishment of the platform reflects a broader European debate on engaging with Russian civil society in exile.
The creation of the PACE dialogue platform represents an attempt by the international community to engage Russians who oppose the war and the authoritarian regime. However, the Ukrainian delegation's cautious position demonstrates a reluctance to cooperate with representatives who do not support pro-Ukrainian initiatives, as seen in the criticism of Yulia Navalnaya's involvement. This underscores the complexity of international dialogue amid an ongoing conflict and the importance of a clear stance in supporting just change in the region.