During an interview with Zeit, as reported by Spiegel and cited by European Truth, Chancellor Karl Nehammer spoke up about the importance of dialogue with Russia.
He firmly believes that the war in Ukraine can only be concluded through direct negotiations with the Russian Federation: "There can be no peace without Russia."
Nehammer also expressed his concerns over the war's trajectory, suggesting that it has the potential to expand beyond control.
Initially, support for Ukraine involved ammunition and defensive weaponry.
But as the conflict has evolved, previously off-limits military aid, such as tanks and fighter jets, has started to flow into Ukraine.
Acknowledging Ukraine's sovereignty and the fact that it was invaded, the Austrian Chancellor insisted that any peace efforts must involve Ukraine directly.
The support of the Ukrainian people is essential for the legitimacy and success of any peace initiative. This stance aligns with earlier statements from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi, who has been clear that Russia will not be present at the inaugural Peace Summit in Switzerland in June.
Instead, "representatives of the continents" will relay details of the developed "peace plan" to Moscow.
Switzerland's Peace Conference Initiative
The Swiss government's announcement to host a high-level conference aimed at settling the war in Ukraine on June 15 and 16 reflects the international community's desire to find a peaceful solution to the conflict.
But Russia's decision to abstain from participating in the talks, criticizing the proposed "peace formula" as unsustainable and neglectful of Russian interests, adds another layer of complexity to the peace process.
