Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko has emphasized that for any potential peace settlement regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, security guarantees for Moscow are a non-negotiable requirement. Grushko's statements reflect a growing frustration within the Russian government over what it perceives as a lack of attention from European Union leaders regarding Russia's security interests. His remarks, made in an interview with Russian media on February 10, underline the complexities involved in reaching a diplomatic resolution to the conflict.

Grushko asserted that while Ukraine's security interests must also be considered, it is Russia's security concerns that hold the "key importance" in any discussions about peace. He pointed out that EU leaders have not adequately addressed the security guarantees that Russia seeks, which he claims is essential for a peace treaty to be viable. This highlights the contentious nature of negotiations, wherein both sides have sharply diverging views on what constitutes a fair settlement.

Furthermore, Grushko specified that the kind of security guarantees Russia is looking for would likely include some of the demands that have been central to Moscow's position since the invasion began, such as preventing Ukraine from joining NATO. His comments not only signal Russia's steadfast stance but also complicate the potential pathways to peace, suggesting that without addressing its security needs, Moscow may not be willing to engage in genuine negotiations with Ukraine or its allies.