NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has voiced concern over Russia’s decision to send a low-level delegation to the ongoing peace talks with Ukraine, calling it a clear indication of Moscow's lack of genuine commitment to negotiations.
Speaking at a press briefing in Antalya, Türkiye, Rutte emphasized that while Ukraine has shown readiness to engage in meaningful dialogue, Russia has so far failed to reciprocate with the same level of seriousness, Caliber.Az reports citing Turkish media.
“Ukraine is clearly ready to play ball, but that ball is now in the Russian court,” Rutte told reporters, highlighting the contrast between Ukraine’s diplomatic posture and Russia’s approach.
He criticized Moscow’s decision to send a low-level delegation to the ongoing peace talks, describing it as a missed opportunity in light of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s willingness to engage directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“The Russians are sending a low-level delegation now and not taking up the opportunity President Zelenskyy has been providing. He said, ‘I'm willing to sit with Putin as soon as the ceasefire is there, we are willing to negotiate a peace deal’,” Rutte said.
The NATO chief stressed that any future peace agreement must be built on solid, lasting foundations, noting the shortcomings of earlier diplomatic efforts.
“It has to be lasting. It has to be durable. We cannot have a repeat of what happened in 2014-15, with the Minsk agreement, which was basically challenged still when the ink was not dry,” he remarked, referencing the fragile and ultimately unsuccessful accords aimed at resolving the conflict in Eastern Ukraine.
Rutte also underscored the importance of international coordination in supporting Ukraine, welcoming the diverse range of diplomatic efforts emerging globally.
“Clearly, Türkiye is playing an important role here,” he said, in response to a question about the host country’s role in both the NATO meeting and the Ukraine-Russia peace dialogue. “The convening power of Türkiye is clearly there. We can see it every day. And I think that is important.”
In addition, Rutte acknowledged the critical involvement of the United States, praising its engagement in efforts to facilitate peace in Ukraine.
By Vafa Guliyeva
Source: caliber.az
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