Ukraine's Ambassador Outlines Kyiv's Stance and Russia's Regional Ambitions

Ukraine's position on its sovereignty and territorial integrity remains unchanged since the start of the full-scale war. The country's fundamental principles are based on internationally recognized borders, as affirmed by the global community, and the right to independence.

According to Ukrainian Ambassador Viktor Maiko, these principles are not subject to revision or negotiation. For Kyiv, issues of territorial integrity and sovereignty are paramount and non-negotiable.

The diplomat separately addressed Kazakhstan's stance. He noted that Astana has consistently refrained from supporting any resolutions over the past four years that would call Ukraine's territorial integrity into question. Maiko emphasized that Kazakhstan, through its president, has repeatedly underscored that Ukraine's sovereignty is unquestionable.

"This is a very important point," Maiko stated. "Your country is led by intelligent, competent, and well-informed people. Everyone perfectly understands who the aggressor is and who the victim of the attack is. There is no need to explain anything to anyone." Ukraine values this position, the ambassador added.

Maiko also shared Ukraine's perspective on the Kremlin's initial calculations for launching the war. He said Moscow anticipated a rapid seizure of Ukraine, a change in government, and the installation of a loyal leadership.

"The false calculation was that the attack on Ukraine, its quick occupation, and the formation of a new government would happen very swiftly," Maiko explained. "It was assumed that people would welcome the Russian army, after which fake elections would be held as in Crimea. And they would install a Ukrainian Lukashenko."

The ambassador argued that establishing control over Ukraine was meant to automatically restore Moscow's influence across the entire post-Soviet space. The Kremlin allegedly believed that countries in Central Asia would have no choice but to accept political and economic rules dictated by Moscow.

"At that moment, they thought they already controlled a significant part of the Caucasus; now the western part of the former Soviet Union would be under control, leaving only Central Asia," Maiko said. "And they believed Central Asia would have nowhere to go but to accept Moscow's rules of the game and submit to both political and economic diktat—essentially turning into colonies as it was during Soviet times."

In conclusion, Ambassador Maiko stressed that Ukraine is not seeking a short-term ceasefire at any cost.

"No one needs peace at any price," he stated firmly. "Ukraine does not need peace for just one month or one year. Essentially there are only two conditions: equitable compromises and guarantees for long-term peace." Kyiv is interested in a sustainable and just settlement that will ensure national security for years to come.