ISTANBUL 

It would be better for Ukraine to undo its integration with the West and embrace Moscow’s terms for peace, a Russian presidential aide has said, warning that a lack of compromise would only lead to more territorial losses.

“We want peace. But if Ukraine keeps being driven by the national interests of others, then we will be simply forced to respond,” Vladimir Medinsky said in an interview with the Wall Street Journal (WSJ).

Medinsky, who spoke to the WSJ after the latest round of negotiations in Istanbul, cited the Great Northern War of 1700-1721 as evidence of Moscow’s success in protracted conflicts, saying: “With Russia, it’s impossible to fight a long war.”

The aide described the Russia-Ukraine war, which continues since 2022, “like a conflict between two brothers.”

“This is like a conflict between two brothers—one older and one younger—about who is smarter and more important,” he was quoted as saying. “This conflict sadly deepens our differences, and that’s why we want it to end as soon as possible.”

Medinsky led Moscow's delegation in the latest two rounds of Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul on May 16 and June 2. In the second round, Moscow and Kyiv exchanged documents outlining their respective visions on a future peace deal.

Russia’s memorandum, according to Russian media, contains points including calling for the international recognition of Ukrainian regions it took under control, banning arms supplies to Ukraine, ending mobilization, elections, a neutral, non-allied status, and ensuring the full rights, freedoms and interests of Russian-speaking people.

Ukraine, which seeks EU integration and membership in the NATO defense alliance, has described the document as an "ultimatum."