CurrentReport Blog Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, Mariana Betsa, has firmly stated that Russia is not ready to end its ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which has now lasted over three years. In an exclusive interview with The Sun, Betsa addressed the current state of negotiations, Ukraine’s stance on territorial compromises, and Russia’s continued aggression, which has claimed countless lives since the conflict began.
Betsa emphasized that Ukraine would not accept any territorial compromises in peace talks with Russia. She asserted that Kyiv does not want “peace at any price,” and is committed to defending its sovereignty. Her comments highlight Ukraine’s firm stance on maintaining its territorial integrity, which has been repeatedly violated by Russia throughout the invasion.
“No one should be fooled by Russia,” Betsa stated, warning that President Vladimir Putin’s government cannot be trusted. She expressed deep concerns over Russia’s ongoing tactics of manipulation, which she believes are designed to derail peace negotiations and prolong the conflict.
Ukraine’s Commitment to Peace Talks
Despite the escalating violence, Ukraine has remained committed to peace talks and a resolution to the war. Betsa explained that Kyiv has “engaged in good faith” in discussions with both U.S. officials and international partners to find a diplomatic solution. In early March, Ukraine reached a tentative agreement with the U.S. on a ceasefire, with agreements in place for a truce in the skies, at sea, and at the frontlines.
However, according to Betsa, the ceasefire process was quickly sabotaged by Russia. “On March 11, we agreed to a truce in the sky, a truce at sea, and a ceasefire at the front,” she revealed. Despite this, Russia imposed additional conditions that were still under negotiation when the Kremlin resumed shelling Ukrainian territory with greater intensity. The resumption of bombings, Betsa explained, has resulted in numerous casualties and a continued humanitarian crisis.
Russia’s Unwavering Aggression
Betsa’s words make it clear that Ukraine believes Russia’s actions reveal its true intentions. “They started bombing us with even greater intensity, and so many people have been killed throughout this month,” Betsa lamented. The Deputy Minister accused the Russian government of showing no remorse for the loss of life and no actions toward genuinely achieving peace in Ukraine. She pointed to Russia’s consistent violations of agreed-upon ceasefires and its relentless aggression as proof that Moscow does not seek an end to the war.
In her interview, Betsa also warned that the international community should not overlook Russia’s intentions. She stressed that while Russia engages in diplomatic discussions, it continues to employ military tactics that suggest they are far from being interested in ending the war.
The Path Forward for Ukraine
As the conflict continues, Betsa called on the global community to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and its right to defend itself against Russia’s unprovoked invasion. She made it clear that Ukraine’s goals remain the same: reclaiming all occupied territories and holding Russia accountable for its actions.
For Ukraine, the path forward involves continued resistance to Russian aggression, as well as bolstered international support. Betsa’s comments underscore Ukraine’s resolve in its fight for independence and territorial integrity, despite the challenges posed by Russia’s deception and military escalation.
As the war enters its fourth year, Betsa’s statements serve as a reminder of the complexities of peace negotiations with Russia and the painful reality that trust in Moscow remains at an all-time low.
Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Mariana Betsa’s interview reveals the ongoing challenges that Kyiv faces in its efforts to secure peace amidst Russia’s relentless aggression. Her statements reaffirm Ukraine’s determination to maintain its territorial integrity and refuse any compromise that would endanger its sovereignty. The international community’s support remains crucial in the face of continued Russian aggression, as Ukraine fights for a just and lasting peace.
