Russia Demands NATO Withdraw to 1997 Borders in Ukraine Talks

Russia is demanding NATO withdraw its troops and bases in Eastern Europe to 1997 levels as part of negotiations to end the war in Ukraine, according to a Russian position paper reported by the New York Times. The demand goes far beyond territorial concessions from Ukraine. The paper, dated November 10 and presented at talks in Abu Dhabi, would require NATO to pull back from Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, the Baltic states, Slovenia, Romania, and Bulgaria. Russia also seeks a halt to Western arms supplies to Ukraine, no further NATO expansion, and restrictions on French and British nuclear deterrence. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the US has proposed NATO membership for Ukraine in exchange for ceding territory, which contrasts with Russia's broader demands. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denied reports that Russia also wants Finland to reverse its 2023 NATO accession.