Ukraine Must Escalate Strikes on Russia, Says Zelenskyy Aide: Talks Only Possible Under Severe Pressure.

Ukraine's Stance in Negotiations with Russia

According to UATV: Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to the Ukrainian President's Office, has argued that negotiations with Russia require an uncompromising approach. He stated that Ukraine needs to ramp up attacks on Russian infrastructure to compel Moscow into more meaningful dialogue. Podolyak also emphasized that the Donbas region is not Russia's true objective in the conflict, and that Ukraine has no intention of ceding its territory.

Regarding Russia's current demands, Moscow is calling for Ukrainian Armed Forces to withdraw from the Donbas. At the same time, Russia claims it could seize the region within two months. Podolyak noted that while Ukraine cannot yet liberate its territories through military means, this does not mean it will surrender them.

'The Donbas was never the cause of the war,' Mykhailo Podolyak stressed, commenting on Russia’s actions.

He also pointed out that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is deeply surprised that Russia is issuing ultimatums in a bilateral negotiation format with the United States. 'Russia will say tomorrow, as soon as you agree to any voluntary concession, that we supposedly have realities on the ground,' he added, highlighting the risks tied to negotiations.

Strategic Approach to Talks

Emphasizing a strategic approach to negotiations, Podolyak declared:

'You don’t work with Russia in negotiations by asking, “Would you like to do this or not?” It must be done only through hard coercion.'

As a result, the situation in Donbas remains tense, and Ukraine’s position on defending its territories is unchanged despite Russian pressure. Intensifying attacks on Russian infrastructure could become a key element of Ukraine’s strategy to shift the negotiation dynamics, signaling the Ukrainian side’s readiness for decisive action. At the same time, Podolyak’s remarks highlight the importance of clearly demonstrating strength in diplomatic efforts to avoid potential manipulation by Russia.