ISW described five main demands of the Kremlin for ending the war with Ukraine.

After the meeting of the US special envoy Steve Witkoff with Vladimir Putin on April 11, the Russian leadership confirmed its demands to Ukraine regarding the terms of peace.

According to information from ISW, Russia demands the complete demilitarization of Ukraine, its neutrality, 'denazification,' and a change of government.

However, Russian officials also state that a peace agreement must include Ukraine's renouncement of Euro-Atlantic aspirations and the official recognition of territories annexed by Russia.

Among the main demands of the Kremlin, there is also the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from territories controlled by Kyiv and the recognition of 'Novorossiya,' which encompasses other regions of southern Ukraine.

Main demands of the Kremlin

Demilitarization of Ukraine

Russia demands that the size of the Armed Forces of Ukraine be reduced to 85,000 personnel and the National Guard to 15,000. Russia also proposes limitations on the number of tanks and armored vehicles.

Currently, the military personnel in Ukraine number nearly 200,000 and more than 3,000 units of equipment.

Change of power and 'denazification'

The Kremlin demands the replacement of the Ukrainian government, labeling it as 'illegitimate.' The term 'denazification' is used to establish a pro-Russian regime in Kyiv. Putin stated that he does not recognize any agreements with the current government of Ukraine.

Renunciation of NATO and other alliances

The Kremlin demands amendments to the Constitution of Ukraine that would prohibit NATO membership and require neutrality. They would also prohibit the conclusion of military agreements and the deployment of foreign forces on the territory of Ukraine.

Territorial concessions and 'Novorossiya'

Russia demands the complete withdrawal of the Armed Forces of Ukraine from occupied regions, including Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolaiv, and Odesa regions. They attempt to cover their claims under the name 'Novorossiya.'

Root causes of the war

The Kremlin justifies its aggression by claiming that NATO violated its promise not to expand eastward. They also assert that Russian-speaking Ukrainians are discriminated against in Ukraine and that they are protecting the 'Russian world.'

Despite the statement about a ceasefire, Russia does not intend to abandon its demands in the peace agreement with Ukraine. They claim that any cessation of hostilities must lead to a final resolution of the conflict that eliminates the 'root causes' of their invasion. Otherwise, Russia believes that Kyiv will have the opportunity to rearm and regroup its forces.