What Putin Wants to End the War in Ukraine: A Written Promise from the West

Putin’s Demands for Peace in Ukraine

According to three unnamed Russian sources familiar with the negotiations, President Vladimir Putin has laid out his terms for ending the devastating war in Ukraine. These terms include a written pledge from Western powers to halt NATO’s eastward expansion and the lifting of some sanctions imposed on Russia.

Seeking Written Guarantees

Putin reportedly wants a formal assurance that NATO won’t admit Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova, or other former Soviet republics as members. He views this as crucial to addressing Russia’s security concerns, something he has repeatedly emphasized as a core issue. This demand stems from a belief that Russia was misled after the fall of the Berlin Wall when assurances were given that NATO wouldn’t expand eastward.

Other Key Conditions

In addition to the NATO pledge, Putin’s conditions reportedly involve:

• Ukraine’s neutrality, meaning it would renounce any aspirations to join NATO or the European Union
• The lifting of some Western sanctions against Russia
• A resolution to the issue of frozen Russian assets held in the West
• Guarantees for the protection of Russian speakers within Ukraine.

A Stalemate or a Path to Peace?

While Putin has expressed a willingness to negotiate, he also seems increasingly unwilling to compromise on territorial gains. He insists on controlling all four eastern Ukrainian regions claimed by Russia, including Crimea, which was annexed in 2014.

The Stakes Are High

The war in Ukraine has become a defining moment in international relations. Western leaders view the conflict as a dangerous escalation by Russia, a threat to global security, and a violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty. They have vowed to support Ukraine and impose severe economic costs on Russia for its actions. The potential for a wider conflict involving NATO remains a constant concern.

A Complex Path Forward

The path to peace in Ukraine remains uncertain. While Putin’s conditions offer a glimpse into his demands, there are significant obstacles to overcome. The West is unlikely to accept a deal that requires NATO to abandon its open-door policy or legitimizes Russia’s territorial gains. The outcome of the war will have profound implications for the future of Europe and the global order.