Russia’s former President Dmitry Medvedev has stated that Ukraine is facing what may be its final chance to preserve a form of statehood, depending on the outcome of ongoing diplomatic efforts. The comments were made during his address at the St. Petersburg International Legal Forum, where Medvedev emphasized Moscow's openness to peace negotiations under realistic terms shaped by the current military landscape.
Currently serving as Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, Medvedev said Ukraine’s current political leadership lacks sovereignty and legitimacy, calling it a “quasi-state.” He warned that unless Kiev engages seriously in the latest diplomatic overtures, it risks losing its position as a recognized international actor.
“Ukraine has one last opportunity to secure some form of statehood—contingent on a negotiated settlement that reflects the realities on the ground,” Medvedev said.
He also noted Moscow’s concern over the legal authority of Ukraine’s current leadership to sign any binding agreements. Since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s official term expired last year and elections have been suspended due to martial law, Russia fears any peace deal could be reversed by a future administration.
Despite legal uncertainties surrounding Zelensky’s presidency, the Kremlin recently indicated a willingness to engage in direct discussions with the current Ukrainian leadership. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that political considerations would not prevent Moscow from participating in talks aimed at halting hostilities.
“The start of serious negotiations is the priority,” Peskov stated. “All other questions are secondary.”
Russian and Ukrainian representatives convened last week in Istanbul for the first face-to-face dialogue since Kiev withdrew from earlier talks in 2022. Those previous negotiations—reportedly supported in principle by both sides—were cut short when Ukraine opted for continued military resistance, allegedly under external pressure.
At the recent Istanbul summit, both delegations agreed to exchange 1,000 prisoners each and to continue preparing detailed proposals for a potential ceasefire. Russian envoy Vladimir Medinsky and Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed the mutual understanding to keep communication open.
The diplomatic momentum follows a high-profile phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump. Both leaders expressed interest in facilitating peace talks, with Trump reportedly offering strong backing for direct dialogue.
Putin stated after the call that Moscow supports a peaceful resolution and is prepared to draft a memorandum outlining principles for a future agreement, including a defined time frame and possible ceasefire conditions.