Mikhail Sheitelman on Russia’s memorandum: “Unthinkable demands on Ukraine lie ahead”

He shared this on his blog.

Mikhail Sheitelman claims that Russian representative Lavrov is making unusual demands on Ukraine related to the peace memorandum. According to him, this document demonstrates that Russia does not plan to adhere to the ceasefire.

The expert noted that the Russian Federation intends to hold elections in Ukraine before signing a peace agreement, and this is the point that the memorandum will contain. Sheitelman explained that Russia does not recognize Ukraine as an independent country that determines its election dates. He also emphasized that the Russians themselves should hold honest elections.

“Three years ago in Istanbul, one could have insisted that Russia first organize elections so that we would be dealing with a legitimate representative. But, unfortunately, during this time, Russia has turned into a real fascist state, where only those with whom we are at war will win in “free” elections, not the opposition,” he noted.

The expert also recalled the words of US Secretary of State Rubio, stating that the Russians want to control what they have no right to. This is a vivid example of their behavior: Russia wants to influence the elections in Ukraine and determine their dates, although it has no authority to do so.

Mikhail Sheitelman also comments that the ceasefire negotiations could last for weeks.

He noted that one should be cautious in interpreting such processes, as intrigues can drag on for a long time.