This is reported by Kyiv24
The Kremlin is likely using statements from Viktor Medvedchuk, who is suspected of treason in Ukraine, to justify Russia’s refusal of peace initiatives regarding the resolution of the war against Ukraine. These conclusions are found in a report by the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
Medvedchuk’s Role in Kremlin Rhetoric
Analysts note that Moscow is involving Medvedchuk, the founder of the “Other Ukraine” organization in Russia, to voice more radical positions “on behalf of Ukraine” than those expressed by Kremlin officials or President Vladimir Putin himself. Such statements are widely disseminated by Russian media to prepare the public for a further refusal of peace agreements, especially in light of ongoing negotiations between the U.S., Ukraine, and European partners.
ISW experts believe that the Kremlin has no intention of accepting any peace initiative that does not meet all the requirements of the Russian Federation, including those arising from recent negotiations.
Medvedchuk’s Statements and Experts’ Reactions
On January 18, Viktor Medvedchuk, a former member of the Ukrainian Parliament and a long-time associate of Vladimir Putin, stated in an interview with the Russian news agency TASS:
“There will be no peace in Ukraine in 2026.” He also reiterated the claim that “time is on the Kremlin’s side,” emphasizing the Kremlin’s determination to achieve its initial military goals without negotiations with Ukraine.
As highlighted by the Institute for the Study of War, Medvedchuk repeated typical Kremlin rhetoric that distorts the reasons for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, presenting the war as a confrontation with the West. He also questioned the legitimacy of the Ukrainian government and dismissed the possibility of elections in Ukraine unless they are held under conditions dictated by Russia, despite the Kremlin previously demanding elections to achieve a peace agreement.
Analysts emphasize that similar statements from Putin and Kremlin officials aim to demonstrate commitment to initial military objectives and create the impression that Russia’s economic and military potential can surpass Ukraine and Western support. Experts note that an increase in Western support could change this destructive narrative.
Medvedchuk’s statements came against the backdrop of ongoing peace consultations between Ukraine, the U.S., and the European Union, as well as a recent round of negotiations between Ukraine and the U.S. that took place on January 16 in Miami.
It is worth noting that Medvedchuk was once among the richest people in Ukraine, led the Opposition Platform — For Life faction in the Parliament, and is a godfather to the Russian president. He is accused of treason and violations of the laws and customs of war. In April 2022, he was detained by Ukrainian law enforcement, and in September of the same year, he was exchanged for Russian prisoners. In January 2023, the President of Ukraine stripped Medvedchuk of his Ukrainian citizenship.