(MENAFN) German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that ending the conflict in Ukraine will likely demand “painful concessions” from Kiev, particularly regarding territorial matters.

He emphasized that the opportunity to halt the fighting has “never been greater” than it is now, speaking to a news agency on Tuesday.

Wadephul’s remarks came just before a scheduled meeting in Moscow between US President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The discussions are expected to focus on the peace proposal for resolving the Ukraine conflict, which Washington presented last month.

Although the specifics of the initial plan have not been formally disclosed, media reports suggest it would require Ukraine to relinquish control over parts of Donbass (the Donetsk People’s Republic and Lugansk People’s Republic), abandon its NATO membership ambitions, and accept restrictions on its military capabilities.

Russia has responded cautiously, noting that several aspects of the plan are acceptable but stressing that revisions by all parties are anticipated.

Wadephul highlighted that the role of diplomacy is to establish compromises acceptable to all sides. “Ultimately, this will certainly always involve painful concessions,” he remarked regarding the prospects of a negotiated solution.

The minister further noted that Ukraine would likely need to conduct a referendum on the peace terms, including territorial adjustments, while also suggesting that Kiev should be provided with security “assurances” in return.

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