The discussion about how the Russo-Ukrainian war could and should be ended is intensifying every month. Regardless of whether one considers a negotiated end to the war to be desirable and possible, all participants in the debate must recognize the difficulties associated with such a final. The experience of various countries over the past three decades with Moscow’s neo-imperial meddling offers ample grounds for skepticism.
As for the current war, there are a number of reasons why negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow are unlikely to either take place or produce results – let alone secure a lasting peace.
A main reason is a fundamental confrontation between the constitutions of Ukraine and Russia. The recent unlawful annexation by Russia of four territories in south-eastern mainland Ukraine poses an enormous challenge.
