It Takes Two to Tango: Blinken on Possible Negotiations Regarding Ukraine

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated on ABC News that the conflict in Ukraine must end under conditions that "reflect Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity." He mentioned that Kyiv would engage in negotiations with the Russian side if Moscow shows initiative, as reported by RTVI.

"So far, we do not see signs that Vladimir Putin is interested in meaningful diplomacy. If he shows interest, I believe the Ukrainians will be the first to join, and we will follow them," the U.S. Secretary of State said.

Blinken also noted that “everyone wants” an end to this conflict. He said that peaceful negotiations are currently unavailable, as “it takes two to tango.”

This marks Blinken’s fourth visit to Kyiv since the beginning of military operations. After the visit, he announced that confiscated Russian assets will be transferred to Ukraine for the first time and also declared a new package of military assistance.

Last week, on September 5, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stated that negotiations with Russia would not begin in the near future. The minister expressed support for the previously adopted legislative ban on conducting negotiations with Russia led by Vladimir Putin.

On September 9, G20 leaders were able to reach an agreement on a final declaration during the summit in New Delhi, despite disagreements. Among other things, member countries acknowledged the difference of opinions regarding Ukraine. The German dpa agency reported that the adoption of the document, which pertains to the situation in Ukraine, was the result of a compromise that took into account both Russian and Western demands. As a result, the declaration referred to UN resolutions, and there were no condemnations against Russia.