In a fresh provocation on June 16, 2025, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko stated in an interview that Ukraine must destroy Western-supplied weapons if it wants peace. According to Moscow, this is a supposed condition for a ceasefire. In reality, it’s yet another tactic of political coercion and military pressure from a regime that continues to act in bad faith.
This is not a step toward peace. It’s a demand for Ukrainian capitulation—disguised as diplomacy.
A False Narrative of “Peace” from the Aggressor
Russia has been aggressively promoting a so-called “memorandum” for ending the war—one that conveniently places the burden on Kyiv and its allies, while absolving Moscow of responsibility. Central to this push is the claim that ending Western military aid will lead to peace.
But the facts are clear: Russia is the aggressor, not the peacekeeper.
Ukraine Has the Legal Right to Self-Defense
Under Article 51 of the UN Charter, every nation has an inherent right to defend itself when under attack. Ukraine’s right to self-defense is not up for debate. The delivery of weapons and aid from Western nations is fully legitimate and supports Ukraine in exercising that right.
Moreover, 141 countries supported the UN General Assembly resolution affirming Ukraine’s territorial integrity and condemning Russia’s invasion. Russia was expelled from the Council of Europe, further underscoring its isolation and international illegitimacy.
The Kremlin’s Real Goal: Weaken Ukraine’s Defense
By demanding that Ukraine destroy foreign-supplied weapons, Russia seeks to undermine Ukraine’s military resilience. This is not a peace offering—it’s a strategy to leave Ukraine vulnerable to future attacks.
Such ultimatums are not diplomatic initiatives. They are part of an ongoing war strategy aimed at prolonging aggression while appearing to seek compromise.
Western Weapons Defend Lives, Not Escalate War
Ukrainian defense forces use Western arms responsibly and strategically, not for indiscriminate attacks. Unlike Russia’s massive strikes on civilian infrastructure, Ukraine’s use of foreign aid is grounded in necessity and legality.
This contrast is stark: while Russia bombs kindergartens, power grids, and residential buildings, Ukraine fights to survive.
No country should be expected to disarm in the face of a hostile, invading neighbor. Moscow’s demand is not a call for peace—it is a call for surrender. And Ukraine has made it clear: surrender is not an option.
