Wins in Paris, and gas transit – but weirdness marks IMF talks

On the eve of the meeting, social tension in Ukraine had been mounting, with hardly anyone daring to predict how negotiations might go. Street protesters demanded that the president not cross five red lines, while Zelenskiy supporters were nervous about how the ex-comedian might handle the ex-KGB officer. Both supporters and critics exhaled with relief when Zelenskiy spoke well at the joint press conference at the summit’s conclusion. Moreover, he had not crossed any red line. Territorial integrity remains indisputable. No elections will be held in occupied Donbas until control over the border returns to Ukraine. While Zelenskiy at times looked amateurish, his inexperience played in his favor, as evidence that he was absolutely sincere in his peaceful aspirations. Although steps towards de-escalation have been very minor so far, Zelenskiy made it clear that he was ready to reach an agreement. From Kyiv, the Normandy summit looked like a win—even if mainly just because it wasn’t a failure. More about recent tendencies you can read in our new report “Wins in Paris, and gas transit – but weirdness marks IMF talks”. The full report could be obtained through subscription at Global Source (www.globalsourcepartners.com).  Trial access is available.