German ambassador says Russia has not negotiated seriously during the war

German Ambassador to Ukraine Boris Ruge says Russia has not engaged in serious negotiations during four and a half years of full-scale war. He argues Moscow’s conditions amount to Ukraine’s capitulation, while its actions contradict claims of readiness for peace. Ruge says Ukraine must decide the terms for ending the war and Europe should have a role in any settlement. He points to Russia’s rejection of proposed ceasefires and ongoing attacks on civilians as evidence. He sees no real negotiation underway.