Christopher Miller

Here is the unedited translation of what Russia’s chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky told Russian state TV today. Q: A significant part of the territory of Kharkiv Oblast and other regions is currently under Russian control. Were exchanges of these territories discussed during the negotiations, and for which territories? Medinsky: The topic of possible territorial exchanges is periodically floated by various sides. Let me remind you of the history. After Ukraine's incursion into Kursk Oblast, a decision was made — the president has spoken about this more than once — to create a security zone along the border with the Russian Federation. This zone is now quite substantial. It is expanding, and it will continue to expand. I don't see any possibility of exchanging these territories. And again, as our leader so vividly put it, wherever the foot of our Russian soldier has stepped, that is ours. As the entire history of Russia has shown, every time we have shown a willingness to make concessions, to agree to compromises that are disadvantageous to us, to demonstrate peaceful intentions and a willingness to yield — every time we have taken steps towards our opponents to avoid certain hardships, as we thought, the result has been that we have ended up with even greater hardships. As the saying goes, we get both war and disgrace. But whenever Russia has demonstrated firmness and confidence in its own strength, as a result, all hardships have been overcome, and a time of lasting peace, tranquillity and development has come, both for us and for our neighbours. Therefore, wherever the Russian flag has been raised, it must not be lowered. The task is something else, and we talked about this today. The task is to create a system of comprehensive security in Europe that will become a new, modern Yalta and Potsdam. One that will be imbued with the spirit of Helsinki in 1975, that will reflect new, contemporary realities, and that will be fair. If we manage to create such a security system, then we will ensure peace in Europe for decades, perhaps even centuries. That is our main task. Q: At the very beginning of the meeting, you said some very cautious and important words: that we would try to move closer to achieving peace. Have you moved closer? Medinsky: I think so, yes, but right now a great deal depends on all participants in the process. A lot depends on Ukraine, on the position of the United States, and on whether Europe comes to its senses. In any case, all the objectives we have set ourselves will be achieved. Q: Are you satisfied for now? Medinsky: Only when we win and sign a peace agreement on our terms.