Ukraines fate tied to Putins survival, former FM Kuleba claims

Ukraine Marks Four Years of War with Russia

Dmytro Kuleba, the former foreign minister of Ukraine from 2020 to 2024, spoke to Al Jazeera about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The war began on February 24, 2022, and has entered its fifth year.

Kuleba reflected on how early expectations of a short war gave way to a prolonged conflict with no clear end in sight. He noted that shifting definitions of victory and growing fractures among Ukraine’s allies have become significant challenges.

Regarding negotiations with Russia, Kuleba stated that the current talks are taking place, but it is unclear whether they are being conducted in good faith or as a means to buy time. He emphasized that Russia has not been known for its willingness to negotiate sincerely in the past.

When asked if he had anticipated the war lasting four years, Kuleba replied that his initial instinct was that it would be a short conflict, but he had also prepared himself for the possibility of a long war.

Kuleba also discussed what victory means to him now. Initially defined as regaining control of the 1991 border, this goal has become increasingly difficult to achieve due to the failure of Ukraine’s big counteroffensive in 2023.

The former foreign minister emphasized that defining a clear final goal is crucial for Ukraine’s survival and success in the conflict.

Source: Al Jazeera