Overview Logo
Article Main Image

OPINION: Alaska Talks: the Unspoken Roadblocks to Peace in Ukraine

KyivPost

Ukraine

Friday, August 15


What too few are talking about in Ukraine war negotiations:

Most media focus is on territory and alliances. But deeper, unresolved issues – ones that could make reaching peace nearly impossible – are being ignored by too many. Let’s break them down:

The US seems to be negotiating behind Ukraine’s and Europe’s backs. The Alaska Talks may reveal what’s already been discussed.

Most media coverage centers on land and alliances. Territorial questions matter – but peace isn’t just about maps. It’s about justice, security, and the future of millions of Ukrainians. These issues won’t be easier than land—and they won’t go away.

What happens to displaced Ukrainians? And to those in occupied territories if the front gets frozen? Will they be abandoned to Russian rule? Will there be evacuations or oversight?

Russia doesn’t deserve to gain land – but may keep some, because allies have been cowards.

And what about POWs? Will they all be exchanged at once?

What about the abducted Ukrainian children? Thousands were kidnapped to Russia. Will they be returned? Will Russia be held accountable? Or will this be quietly ignored for the sake of a deal? That would be completely unacceptable.

Will Russia pay war reparations? How much? Using frozen assets?

Ukraine’s infrastructure is shattered. Millions are displaced.

Who pays for what Russia doesn’t? Europe? Russia must be held accountable.

Will Ukraine be allowed to keep a strong army? Or will its military be capped?

Will there be foreign troops or a buffer zone? Who enforces it – and who guarantees it won’t collapse?

Ukraine must reject any limits on its forces. It’s their only real security guarantee.

What happens to sanctions? Will they be lifted immediately, gradually, or only if Russia meets conditions? What if Russia violates the deal? Will the West reimpose them – or look the other way?

Sanctions must stay unless Russia makes major concessions.

Will Russian war crimes be prosecuted? From Bucha to Mariupol, the evidence is overwhelming.

Will international courts be involved? Will accountability be sacrificed for a deal?

Justice must not be traded away for convenience.

Europe’s future is being decided by Trump and Putin – two men who don’t have Europe’s interests at heart.

But it’s not too late. If European countries announce long-term aid now, Ukraine gains leverage to reject a bad deal. We could also finally offer real security guarantees

Europe must step up – preferably before the Alaska Talks.

Long-term military and financial commitments will give Ukraine leverage and send Putin a message: you won’t outlast us.

Peace without justice is just a pause.

These issues will shape future talks, even if the war doesn’t end now – or anytime soon.

Get the full experience in the app

Scroll the Globe, Pick a Country, See their News

International stories that aren't found anywhere else.

Global News, Local Perspective

50 countries, 150 news sites, 500 articles a day.

Don’t Miss what Gets Missed

Explore international stories overlooked by American media.

Unfiltered, Uncensored, Unbiased

Articles are translated to English so you get a unique view into their world.

Apple App Store Badge