Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, Irina Vereshchuk, born in Rava-Ruska in 1979, has become a notably prominent figure on the national government stage amid ongoing conflict. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has driven international attention, and in the early days of the invasion he led talks to establish humanitarian corridors with Russia. He also heads the Ministry for the Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories. As the first anniversary of the war approaches, EL PERIÓDICO from the Ibérica group shared insights with Ukraine’s leadership.
Ukraine has signed a decree stating that negotiations with Vladimir Putin are impossible at this time. How likely is a resumption of dialogue with Russia, and what conditions would Ukraine set for talks?
Soldiers are the strongest negotiators at present. Their actions on the battlefield—defeating the enemy—represent the critical leverage. The Kremlin has left Ukraine with few options, and the leadership sees Putin as preparing for further conflict. The priority is arming the forces quickly to deter Russian aggression and protect neighboring democracies from expansionist aims.
Is a future negotiation with Russia ruled out for now?
Unlikely in the near term.
Why is that the case?
Russia appears not to seek peace. It has shown a willingness to keep the military presence and weaponry in Ukrainian territory, using intimidation against Ukraine and other democracies. This posture raises doubts about any immediate peace agreement, and there is little appetite for dialogue while aggression continues.
Would Ukraine condition any future talks on Russia withdrawing its troops and weapons?
The essential condition is clear: Russia must remove its forces and armaments from Ukrainian lands before any meaningful dialogue can occur. Until such steps are taken, negotiations would lack purpose as Russia targets civilians and critical infrastructure alike.
By Ukrainian territory, does that refer to the full region or only the areas occupied since February 24 last year?
All of it. There is no scenario where Russia could gain even a single meter of Ukrainian land. This includes Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, and the borders recognized by the 1991 agreements.
Since Russia’s invasion, some political groups have been banned and martial law is in effect. Is managing a democracy at war more challenging now?
Not particularly hard, though democracy is under strain. The aim remains clear: to allow citizens to elect their government, to exercise free speech, and to uphold constitutionally guaranteed rights and responsibilities. A practical example highlights the tension between humanitarian needs and legal procedures. Civilians in dangerous zones, such as Bakhmut, require evacuation, but legal constraints complicate action, illustrating how democratic processes must adapt under pressure.
What about concerns over corruption within the Ukrainian government?
Corruption remains a critical concern. When journalists and activists reveal misconduct, government responses follow swiftly. In one instance, a deputy secretary of defense faced dismissal and an ongoing investigation, signaling a commitment to accountability.
Are you worried about corruption affecting governance?
Yes. Corruption erodes public trust in justice and institutions responsible for safeguarding rights. It is a dangerous weapon for any adversary and must be confronted openly.
You also oversee the occupied territories. What happens when control returns, and how are collaborators handled?
Each case is assessed individually. Justice decides guilt or innocence, reflecting the country’s democratic principle that a judge makes determinations. While collaboration has occurred in reclaimed areas, accountability rests with the courts. Russia bears responsibility for its actions, which complicate any harsh punitive measures toward those who assisted the occupation.
Is Ukraine preparing for a prolonged conflict?
Preparation is ongoing, but there is hope that international support will help bring the war to a close. If victory is achieved, the rebuilding phase will be extensive and will demand renewed resilience from communities that have endured severe hardship. The focus remains on protecting civilians and restoring essential services as quickly as possible.